As part of our coverage leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft we will provide profiles of 200 prospects, including what the scouts around the league are saying and video interviews with each player.
Duke Johnson (RB), Miami
5’9” | 207 lbs.
2014 stats:
242 CAR, 1,652 YDS, 10 TD | 38 REC, 421 YDS, 3 TD
Selection:
3rd round, No. 77 overall (Cleveland Browns)
NFL
What scouts are saying:
"One of the most explosive runners in college football during his time at Miami, Johnson doesn't need much of a crease to make defenses pay. His explosive quickness and elusiveness should help him adapt quickly to NFL speed. His feel and courage as a one-cut runner should earn him instant playing time. Johnson's lack of pass-protection skills and concerns about his durability could force him into a committee situation. He's perfectly suited for a role as a zone-scheme back." - Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
"Impressive acceleration. Alternately displays burst, agility and light feet to high-step through tackles and an effective stiff-arm. Patient runner willing to stretch plays and then hit the hole hard. Shows the "greasy knees" to cut and accelerate in one fluid motion, eluding would-be tacklers. Despite small stature, fights hard for every yard and shows a highly competitive nature. Good hands out of the backfield, with the ability to get downfield on wheel routes or split out wide in some formations." - Rob Rang, CBSSports.com
"Explosive burst and plays with suddenness. Elusive in tight quarters. Has lightning in his feet. Has hips and feet to stop and start without stalling. Rare ability on stretch plays to hit cutback lanes that other backs can't get to. Runs with patience and a well-timed burst. Has great feel as zone-scheme, one-cut runner. Changes direction without breaking stride. Courageous runner. Shows no fear when getting downhill. Strong-willed competitor with toughness. Has second gear around the corner and can erase the angles." - Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
Video analysis provided by NBC Sports and Rotoworld NFL Draft expert Josh Norris.