Taron Johnson

It isn't often that a player with just one offer out of high school winds up becoming a four-year starter, unanimous all-conference pick and Senior Bowl invitee but that is the case with Johnson, a scrappy cover corner who leaves Weber State as the school's all-time leader with 41 passes broken up in 45 games. Perhaps due to poor workouts following his senior season in high school, Johnson earned very little interest from recruiters, reportedly getting just one offer - which he accepted - to Weber State. It didn't take Johnson long to prove his doubters wrong, however, as he played in all 12 games as a true freshman, starting five times. He tied for the team lead with 10 passes defensed in 2017, recording his first interception in the season finale against Idaho State and finishing with 31 tackles (21 solos) and a forced fumble. Johnson earned All-Big Sky recognition as a sophomore, the first of three consecutive years in which he would be recognized by league coaches. He set a new school record with 14 passes defensed (including two interceptions) in 2015 and led the Big Sky in this department with 12 pass breakups as a junior, rising from Honorable Mention to Second Team all-conference during that time. He finished with a flurry, recording a career-high three interceptions (along with 49 tackles, nine passes defensed and three tackles for loss, including two sacks) to earn Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year honors, unanimous First Team honors and an invitation to the Senior Bowl. BACKGROUND Signed with the Wildcats in February 2014, originally as a wide receiver. Earned little interest from recruiters after testing poorly, running a 4.70 time in the 40-yard dash at just 168 pounds despite the fact that he earned All-Metro and All-League honors and was named the All-Purpose Player of the Year...Led the team in receiving yards and finished 13th in the state in receiving.

in our view

Questions about Johnson's size and speed could dog him throughout the pre-draft process but he certainly was a star in the Big Sky, proving a difference-maker once he stepped onto the field. His lack of ideal bulk could push him inside to nickel corner but this could be a blessing in disguise as he possesses the quickness, instincts and physicality needed for success there.

strengths

Possesses an athletic, tight-skinned frame with good overall muscular development. Shows natural cover skills, combining quick feet, fluid hips to change direction and excellent awareness around him. Experienced in press, off-man and zone coverage. Has a short, tight backpedal and does not panic when receivers get to him, showing patience and confidence that he possesses the acceleration to maintain coverage. Anticipates routes well, showing a second gear to close as receivers make their breaks, maintaining position between the receiver and the quarterback. Experience as a receiver shows with his quick hands and very good hand-eye coordination to slap away at passes as they arrive, showing no fear with the ball in flight and turning back for it rather than face-guarding opponents. Showed improved ball-skills in 2017, recording a career-high three interceptions after zero in 2016... Very attentive in run support and of routes around him, quickly breaking off of his primary cover responsibility to help. A physical and reliable open-field tackler who pursues with passion. A four-year starter with no known injuries of note. Voted a team captain in 2017. -- Rob Rang 12/28/2017

compares to

Alterraun Verner, Dolphins - Some questioned the 5-10, 187 pound Verner's ability to stick in the NFL despite a highly productive career at UCLA but now in his eighth season, he has quieted his critics. Like Johnson, Verner is better at breaking up passes (74) than actually intercepting them (15) but he shows a similar quickness and awareness of the ball and in run defense.

weaknesses

Obvious level of competition concerns... Does not possess ideal size for playing the outside cornerback position and has little experience inside at nickel. Lacks ideal height and appears maxed out at 185 pounds. Did not test well prior to signing with Weber State and may play faster than he times due to his awareness... Highly aggressive, biting on underneath routes, which could get him in trouble against the elite athletes and passers of the NFL... Gets grabby, drawing holding flags (California, 2017) for latching on. Only fair ball-skills for a former receiver, intercepting just six of 41 career pass breakups... - Rob Rang 12/28/2017

Played for coach Herbie Berry at Sheldon High School

Earned All-Metro and All-League honors and was named the All-Purpose Player of the Year

Led the team in receiving yards and finished 13th in the state in receiving.

Was born July 27, 1996

Is the son of Baron Johnson

Is majoring in Criminal Justice at Weber State

Signed with the Wildcats in February 2014, originally as a wide receiver.