Mel Kiper has surprising reaction to Paris Johnson's selection in NFL Draft
When Arizona moved off the third pick, nobody expected to hear from them for a bit. General manager Monti Ossenfort decided to surprise the NFL world by moving back into the top 10. The Cardinals then selected Ohio State offensive tackle Paris Johnson with the No. 6 overall pick.
From a consensus standpoint, Johnson was thought to be the top overall offensive tackle. Northwestern’s Peter Skoronski was up there as well but he may be a guard at the next level.
While Johnson is highly thought of, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. says there are still some things Arizona is going to have to teach up. He argues when you are selected somebody that high in the NFL Draft, you expect them to be a consistent Pro Bowler.
A few technique things need to be cleaned up according to Kiper but the physical traits are there.
“He’s smart, he is tough, and he works hard,” Kiper said. “I’ll tell you what, he is not a finished product. But when you watch him on tape, I watch him as a run blocker. He drops his head, has some balance issues. Pass blocking, hand placement could be a little better. Could use his punch a little better. The offensive line coach has a guy with a lot of talent and potential.
“He’s going incredibly long arms, he’s got really good feet. And he’s going to try hard to become and work hard to become a great player. Those technical issues and that lack of experience — needs refinement. Coaching is going to be critical to get this kid to be a Pro Bowler in the NFL.”
Johnson played in every game with Ohio State this season, protecting the blindside of quarterback CJ Stroud. However, this was his first ever season playing at left tackle. The Buckeyes originally placed him on the interior to play at guard.
Now, the goal will be to protect franchise quarterback Kyler Murray. Offensive line has been a huge problem for Arizona ever since selecting Murray. Investing an early pick in a potential franchise tackle is a good move for the new regime.
But if you believe what Kiper is saying, coaches will have some work on their hands. Klayton Adams recently joined staff as the offensive line coach. You would hope he is able to work with Paris Johnson and hopefully turns him into the consistent Pro Bowler the Cardinals desperately need.