The New York Giants made a strategic move in the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting tight end Theo Johnson from Penn State in the fourth round with the 107th overall pick. Johnson, who stands at an impressive 6-6 and weighs 259 pounds, brings excellent size and athleticism to the Giants’ roster.
Combine success
At the NFL Combine, Johnson received a prospect grade of 6.15, indicating that he has the potential to develop into a quality backup with the possibility of becoming a starter in the future. His performance at the Combine was particularly noteworthy, as he showcased the second-best athleticism among tight ends and achieved the fourth-best total score for his position.
Strengths
Johnson’s strengths are numerous and promising. He possesses an excellent build with good musculation across his frame, which contributes to his ability to make contested catches consistently. His route-running skills are impressive, as he demonstrates proper leverage when stemming and separating at the break point. In blocking situations, Johnson displays decent lift with his hips and hands when setting up his base block, and he widens his base while running his feet through initial contact.
Areas for Improvement
However, like any rookie, Johnson has areas for improvement. His route-running could be refined, as he tends to drift rather than sit down when sinking into zone voids. After catching the ball, he’s not particularly dynamic as a runner. In terms of blocking, Johnson needs to work on maintaining a lower center of gravity to prevent edge defenders from slipping off and around him. Additionally, he could benefit from developing a more aggressive run-blocking mentality as a Y tight end.
Opportunity for Playing Time
Despite these weaknesses, Johnson’s potential is evident. His combination of size, athleticism, and receiving ability make him an intriguing prospect for the Giants. As he develops and refines his skills under NFL coaching, Johnson could become a valuable asset in the Giants’ offensive scheme.
The selection of Johnson in the fourth round demonstrates the Giants’ commitment to bolstering their tight end position and adding depth to their offensive arsenal. With proper development and coaching, Theo Johnson has the potential to become a significant contributor to the New York Giants in the coming seasons.
