2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Anthony (AJ) Johnson Jr, DB, University of Virginia
- Name: Anthony (AJ) Johnson Jr
- Position: DB
- College: University of Virginia
- Height: 6’2″
- Weight: 205 lbs
- Twitter: @aj_ballout
- Instagram: @shramcity
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
Football was something I grew up watching and playing at a young age, was something that I gravitated towards, love the competition and physicality of it.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
Plan is to train and get drafted in the 2023 draft.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?
Deion Sanders, he played the game with a swag and changed the dynamic of having swagger on and off the field. He was electric and a shut down corner who I vision on being.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
My mom is my inspiration she is a single mother of 2, works as a fire fighter paramedic and former BSO dispatcher. She works hard for everything she has and wanted in life. Taught me and my sister to treat people how we want to be treated. Instilled a strong faith back ground and I strive to be just like her as I grow up.
What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?
Man to man coverage, challenging guys to win one on one matchups which is what football is all about winning your 1/11th.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
Winning back to back Super Bowls in little league. Earning a scholarship to play at University of Louisville. Catching first career interception. Transferring to UVA. Earning 1st team all conference.
What should we know about Anthony Johnson Jr the person?
Anthony Johnson Jr preferably (AJ) is a guy who works hard and passionate about everything he does. God fearing and stands firm on his faith. Loves to help and service others. Very good fisherman and will look to own my own bait and tackle in near future. Family oriented and very outgoing.
What stands out about your film the most?
What stands out to me is that I am dominant is press coverage don’t allow passes to be completed and take the ball away ability.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
Always look to find good in adverse situations always rely back on my faith and find meaning and purpose through each obstacle.
What would a team get in a player like you?
A leader, great locker room guy. Someone who will bring value and accountability as well as an elite competitor. Hard worker and someone looking to better there game daily.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
The camaraderie and ever lasting bonds and brothers you meet along the way.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
Trunmaine Washington, very good player and stats to match up against the best just never given a fair opportunity at NFL and undersized.
Hula Bowl Contributor and Writer/Scout/Interviewer for Draft Diamonds since January 2020. You can find me on X at @jrberendzen and Instagram at justinberendzen