2019 NFL Draft: Predicting every former Longhorn drafted
The 2019 NFL Draft class starts to thin out in the later rounds at linebacker, but there’s one name that fans shouldn’t shy away from. That could play to the advantage of the two former Longhorns linebackers looking to get a good slot in this draft class.
Former senior starting Longhorns linebacker Gary Johnson is set to put together a very good NFL career if he can continue to improve and show the range that he did this past season. As a former JUCO transfer before he made his way to the Forty Acres, Johnson grew a lot in a short span of time under Herman.
Finishing second on the team in total tackles and tackles for loss behind Omenihu, Johnson carved out a clear leadership role for himself on the defense. He should be able to translate his speed, sure-tackling ability, and range to the next level. The concern for Johnson will be his strength and versatility, which will be quite opposite from someone like Anthony Wheeler.
Johnson could find himself as a borderline day late two or early day three selection. He should be able to carve out a long NFL career given the set talent he brings to the table. The potential for him to grow past his weaknesses as he did in the past two years with the Longhorns has to stick out to NFL scouts too.