2022 NFL Draft: Todd McShay explains why Jermaine Johnson was the best pick of Round 1

Jonathan Wagner

On3 image — David Becker via Getty Images.

Coming into the 2022 NFL Draft on Thursday night, many expected former Florida State Seminoles defensive end Jermaine Johnson II to be selected early in the first round, even as early as the top ten. As picks came in on Thursday night, Johnson continued to fell. Eventually, the New York Jets traded up to No. 26 to select Johnson, and that was the best move of the night according to ESPN NFL Draft expert Todd McShay.

The Jets also selected Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner with the No. 4 pick and Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson with the No. 10 pick. By adding Johnson at No. 26, the Jets added three of McShay’s highest-rated prospects.

“Jermaine Johnson II, DE to the New York Jets,” McShay said. “I’m amazed that the Jets managed to land three prospects whom I had 92-plus grades on. I thought Johnson might be a top-10 pick, so I absolutely love New York trading back into the first round to get him at No. 26. Johnson has a great first step, a strong motor and an arsenal of pass-rush moves. He’ll immediately help the Jets’ edge rush.”

Johnson unexpectedly fell in the first round of the NFL Draft

To begin his collegiate career, Johnson played two seasons for the Georgia Bulldogs. In 16 games there, he totaled 36 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. Following the 2020 season, Johnson transferred to Florida State and immediately turned into one of the nation’s best defensive stars.

At Florida State last season, Johnson burst onto the scene with 70 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, two passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery for a touchdown.

Some experts predicted that the Jets might take Johnson with the tenth overall pick, but there were questions on whether or not he would even fall that far. As Johnson continued to slide in the opening round of the NFL Draft on Thursday, the Jets knew that they wanted to move back up and get him. And after moving up to get Johnson, the Jets still held onto one of their early picks in the second round at No. 38 overall, leaving the door open for an even more impressive haul after Day 2 of the draft.