2022 NFL Draft: Why Jermaine Johnson is the best defensive end in the draft

Total Package

Jermaine Johnson has the total package compared to these other guys and will likely make an impact early and sustain it for longer, provided he stays healthy(and he doesn’t have a history of injuries).

He compares favorably to another FSU first-rounder, Brian Burns. Burns had slightly shorter arms and a slightly quicker 10-yard split (1.54).

Burns was in the conversation for NFL Rookie of the Year and should have made the Pro Bowl in 2020 but got robbed of the honor before getting the nod in 2021.

Johnson’s get off the line of scrimmage, arm length, motor, and instincts are things he naturally has in his arsenal. I know some folks may say he only had one big year in college because he played as a reserve at UGA before bursting on the scene at FSU.

I’d point to Joe Burrow’s college career as someone that didn’t exactly light it up before having an outstanding senior season to become the No. 1 overall pick in 2020.

I’m not suggesting Johnson be the No. 1 overall selection, but he should be the first defensive end selected in the 2022 NFL Draft. The tape doesn’t lie. His combine numbers back up the tape, and he’ll be ready to contribute immediately.