Tyler Johnson, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got one of the best steals in the entire draft when they selected Johnson with the 161st overall pick. The rookie joins a stacked offense that already features Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
Throw in Cameron Brate, O.J. Howard, and Rob Gronkowski at tight end, and Tampa Bay’s skill positions look like they came from a Pro Bowl roster. Very few NFL defenses possess the personnel to match Tampa Bay’s evolving offense.
Johnson went to school at Minnesota, where he helped the Gold Gophers claim back-to-back bowl wins in 2017 and 2018. Johnson led the team in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns both years.
This past season, Johnson broke Eric Decker’s school record for career receiving yards and set the program record for career receiving touchdowns. In his final two collegiate seasons, Johnson generated 164 receptions for 2,487 yards and 25 touchdowns.
Concerns remain about Johnson’s ability to generate separation against NFL cornerbacks with bursts of quickness, but he’s an outstanding receiver when it comes to battling for contested catches.
Regardless of what skeptics say, expect big things from the Buccaneers this season, and look forward to the role Johnson plays for Tampa Bay. Even if he only sees limited snaps as a rookie, he could become a significant part of the offense in a year or two.
