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Washington Redskins 2017 Draft Profiles: Jaleel Johnson, DL

Hogs Haven takes a look at 2017 Draft prospects that could contribute to the Redskins

By Aaron Lesher
NCAA Football: Maryland at Iowa Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Jaleel Johnson, DL
School: Iowa | Conference: BIG 10
College Experience: Senior | Age: 22
Height / Weight: 6-3 / 309 lbs
Projected Draft Status: 2nd - 3rd Round
NFL Comparison: Akiem Hicks

College Statistics


Player Overview

Johnson is a 2-year starter at Iowa, racking up 15.5 TFLs and 11 sacks during this time and progressing from All-Big Ten honorable mention his junior year to first-team All-Big Ten his senior year. As a senior interior defensive lineman, he led the team in both sacks and tackles for loss (7.5 and 10, respectively), which is a very impressive accomplishment. Johnson was raised in high school by his aunt in Chicago rather than his parents back in New York City. Freakish athletic fact: Jaleel Johnson posted a top recorded speed of 19mph at the Senior Bowl, significantly faster than any other defensive lineman or running back.


Strengths

  • Plus first-step quickness off the snap - has initial burst to play in 1-gap 3-4
  • Gives high effort on every play, did not see him take any snaps off
  • Uses solid jab technique to engage blockers and push the pocket
  • Offers upside as both a high-effort run defender and interior pass rusher
  • Has a little mean streak, can deliver a big hit or get chippy after the whistle


Weaknesses

  • Too often plays with high pad level, stalling out rush
  • Not strong enough to anchor against double teams
  • Needs to continue to build bulk and strength on his frame


Highlights & News


How He Fits on the Redskins

Jaleel Johnson was one of my sleepers during the college season leading up to the pre-draft evaluation process because of his technique, well-balanced skillset, quality size and history of production. He’s garnered enough attention to be a likely Day 2 pick, but I doubt he lasts very far into the 3rd round.

He would be a very good fit in the Redskins’ scheme as a 1-gap interior lineman and fits an obvious need. If we’re really going BPA in the first, I don’t think that equates to a defensive lineman unless Solomon Thomas or Malik McDowell (project pick) are around. In the most likely scenario, we could address the defensive line in the second with Johnson, which I think would be a very solid pick to develop under the tutelage of Tomsula and Manusky.

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