2021 NFL Draft Prospect: Patrick Johnson, DE, Tulane

Patrick Johnson is one of the best pass rushers in all of college football right now. He reminds me a lot of Alex Highsmith the former Charlotte pass rusher that the Steelers drafted in 2020. Johnson is a 6030 pass rusher that weighs 255 pounds.

The Chattanooga, Tennessee native is fun to watch. This year he already has 4 sacks. Two sacks against South Alabama and two sacks against Southern Mississippi. Johnson chose Tulane University and it has been a great decision in my opinion.

Out of high school, Johnson was just a two star prospect from 247sports. As a senior in high school he racked up 51 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and four sacks.

So far in Johnson career he has played in 40 games, and has registered 99 total tackles. His 27.5 tackles for loss is impressive, but he has also racked up 16.5 sacks. In 2018, Johnson had 10.5 sacks and already this year he has four sacks.

Johnson received the American Athletic Conference Weekly honor roll award after he recorded four tackles, a pair of sacks and 2.5 tackles for loss against Southern Miss. He also played a key role in limiting Southern Miss to just 59 yards of total offense in the second half.

NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Notes:

Johnson’s first step may be the best in the country. Speed is important when you want to be a speed rusher and Johnson has that. He has power though as well, which is a rare combination. I am not sure where he will fall in the NFL Draft, but I like this kids potential. I feel he is very similar to Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith. Both have grit, and play the game with tenacity. I would not be shocked if a team fell in love with Johnson, he is the best defender on the Tulane defense. – Damond Talbot, NFL Draft Diamonds Owner.