Michigan’s Will Johnson Projected to Join $21 Million Pro Bowl CB in NFL Mock Draft
As the college football season progresses, attention is increasingly shifting toward the NFL Draft, where prospects from various collegiate programs aim to make their mark in the professional ranks. One name that has been repeatedly mentioned in mock drafts is **Will Johnson**, the standout cornerback from the University of Michigan. Projected as a potential top pick, Johnson’s blend of talent, skill set, and performance places him in elite company, with some analysts suggesting he could join a $21 million Pro Bowl caliber cornerback in the NFL.
Will Johnson: A Rising Star
Will Johnson, a towering figure at 6’3”, possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism that makes him an attractive prospect for NFL teams seeking to fortify their secondary. As a freshman, Johnson made a name for himself through consistently impressive performances, showcasing a blend of physical play and finesse that has drawn comparisons to established cornerbacks in the league.
He has played a crucial role in the Wolverines’ defense, aiding their journey through a competitive Big Ten landscape. His ability to challenge opposing receivers at the line of scrimmage and make crucial pass breakups has made him a standout performer. With a keen sense for reading quarterbacks and understanding route patterns, Johnson is not just a reactive player; he is proactive in anticipating plays, making him a formidable presence on the field.
NFL Team Needs
With several NFL teams likely looking to enhance their cornerback positions, Johnson’s stock has risen dramatically. The recent successes of young cornerbacks in the league highlight the importance of investing in defensive backs, illustrating how a strong secondary can serve as a cornerstone for a winning franchise.
Analysts suggest that many teams in desperate need of secondary help will prioritize drafting a cornerback who can immediately impact their defense. This makes Johnson an attractive target for franchises willing to spend resources on improving their defensive backfield.
Joining High-Paid Pro Bowl Talent
One of the most exciting aspects of Johnson’s potential NFL career is the possibility of him teaming up with established stars. Recent mock drafts have projected Johnson to land with the **Dallas Cowboys**, where he could join **Trevon Diggs**, a former Pro Bowler and one of the best young cornerbacks in the league. Diggs, whose explosive playmaking ability is complemented by his ball-hawking skills, is currently on a lucrative contract estimated at $21 million per year.
The prospect of Johnson working alongside a player of Diggs’s caliber is enticing for several reasons. For starters, rookie cornerbacks often face steep learning curves as they transition to the NFL’s higher level of competition. Learning from an experienced Pro Bowler can accelerate Johnson’s development, helping him adapt to the faster pace and increasing complexity of professional offenses.
Moreover, having two elite cornerbacks playing in tandem can drastically enhance a team’s defensive capabilities. A formidable duo not only bolsters a pass defense but also creates opportunities for both players to thrive by confusing quarterbacks and forcing turnovers.
Defensive Strategy and Impact
If Johnson joins the Cowboys, the defensive strategy under head coach Mike McCarthy could witness a substantial shift. Pairing Johnson with Diggs would provide Dallas with the ability to run a variety of coverage schemes, giving them flexibility to adapt to different offensive threats. A strong secondary can shut down passing lanes, allowing additional opportunities for pressure from the defensive front.
Additionally, Johnson’s versatility means he can contribute in various scenarios, whether lined up in press coverage, zone, or even matched against more physical tight ends as needed. This adaptability would allow the Cowboys to exploit matchups and make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
Conclusion
As the NFL Draft approaches, Will Johnson’s stock continues to rise, and his projection to join a team like the Dallas Cowboys—where he could link up with Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs—paints an exciting picture for his professional future. Johnson embodies the potential to become a cornerstone piece of a franchise’s defense and join the ranks of elite cornerbacks in the league. While there remains much to unfold in the lead-up to the draft, one thing is for certain: if Johnson lands in the NFL with the right organization, he has all the tools to make a significant impact and possibly lead the next generation of defensive backs.
