John Johnson III, Safety

At this point, we are all aware of the headliners in that Rams secondary. Aqib Talib, Marcus Peters and cornerback Lamarcus Joyner comprise one of the best trios of defensive backs in the league, if not the best. The envy of all, this defense has unlimited potential that begins with the ruthless corps of corners and safeties. John Johnson III will only add to that in his second year. All the help in the world is around him, effectively easing the pressure off of the second-year pro. This is only one of the reasons why Johnson is poised to break out.

Quickly, let’s recap John Johnson III as a player. He is a well-rounded safety Los Angeles was lucky to find as late as they did. The Boston College product gained hype as a prospect for his frequent showing off of ball skills and big hits.

Some felt he could play either free or strong safety at the next level, but his relatively pedestrian athletic numbers locked him in at strong safety. He plays the box well, stopping the run with great angles and the strength to get off of blocks. His man coverage skills are shoddy at best, but he holds down his zone at a higher rate than the average strong safety. He projected best when not playing “centerfield” and this stayed true during his rookie year.

Johnson will continue to develop an refine his skills this season.

Why He Is Poised To Break Out

Johnson may very well become the product of circumstance, but the Rams may take that and run with it. Wade Phillips always gets the maximum out of his safeties, and this should run true in Los Angeles. Darian Stewart and Lamarcus Joyner both took great leaps under Phillips’ guidance as well.

Going back to the on-field help around him, the veteran leadership he receives will be unparalleled. Johnson now has the luxury of focusing solely on his job and not covering up the mistakes of anyone in front of him. With this pressure lifted off of him, expect a looser and more fierce brand of football from Johnson.