Where Could Buckeyes OT Paris Johnson Land In 2023 NFL Draft?
There's a consensus on who is the top prospect for several positions in this year's NFL draft. Offensive tackle isn't one of them, and it's why several evaluators would argue Buckeyes' left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. clears the rest.
Johnson, a one-year starter at left tackle, impressed protecting C.J. Stroud's blindside in 2022. According to Pro Football Focus, the 6-6 tackle allowed two sacks and 12 pressures in over 800 offensive snaps last season while helping Ohio State produce one of the more potent offenses among FBS programs.
While Johnson was a plug-and-play left tackle for a year, he's a two-year starter with position flexibility. In 2021, he served as the primary right guard and even took several reps at left tackle. After a stellar combine and pro day, the expectation is that Johnson should hear his name called somewhere within the first 20 picks of Thursday night's NFL draft.
Is there a cemented spot for Johnson at this moment? Not in the slightest, but here are five potential landing spots for the former All-Big Ten tackle.
Arizona Cardinals - No. 3
Really? No. 3? According to news coming out of the desert, Johnson very well could be the first non-quarterback selected if Kyler Murray has his way.
Per MMQB's Albert Breer, the Cardinals have done extensive homework on the former All-American. Since the NFL Combine last month, there have been rumors that Arizona has been looking to move down and garner more draft capital since quarterback seems to be one of the few positions that don't need addressing.
Could this move also be to justify passing on premier defensive talent in favor of an offensive lineman? While Murray is slated to miss most of the regular season after tearing his ACL late last season, upgrading his protection will be essential for the organization. Neither D.J. Humphries nor Kelvin Beachum should feel safe remaining at either tackle spot, and with position flexibility, ruling out Johnson seems far-fetched.
Never say never in the NFL. This includes Johnson surpassing the selection as where most evaluators have him landing.
Chicago Bears - No. 9
A fan-favorite through most of the pre-draft process, Johnson and Chicago make sense for multiple reasons. Former Buckeyes quarterback Justin Fields gave rave reviews of Johnson's potential. At the combine, Johnson said he envisioned a scenario where he'd be the long-term blocker for Fields in the pros.
Tevin Jenkins, a former second-round pick, is expected to shift inside to guard. Braxton Jones exceeded the standard given out to Day 3 rookies and has earned the right to remain at left tackle for another season. Should GM Ryan Poles believe that Johnson could slide in at right tackle with little hesitation, the Buckeye boys reunite in the Windy City.
Tennessee Titans - No. 11
New Titans GM Ran Carthon said the team is looking for a "blue player" that could contribute immediately. One of the glaring weaknesses in the Music City is the offensive line. With Taylor Lewan being released and Nate Davis leaving in free agency, every position on the left side is in need of an upgrade.
While Tennessee signed former first-round pick Andre Dillard, he's vastly inexperienced in a starting role outside of a few games in Philadelphia through four seasons. Johnson could fight for reps on the blindside and settle for the starting left guard role if Dillard looks to be the more stable option. This is an offense designed to enhance the run game behind All-Pro Derrick Henry, so strengthening the trenches seems to be a priority for the franchise.
New York Jets - No. 15
Aaron Rodgers might be a one-year rental option for Gang Green. It would be best to give him as much protection as possible for however long he calls the AFC East home. Regardless of the four-time MVP's status with the Jets, the offensive line remains a position of need. Mekhi Becton has missed the previous two years due to injury. Duane Brown was at one point a Pro Bowl left tackle.
His best days are like old-time shows on Broadway; expired.
Johnson could start at right guard for a season before taking over for Brown in 2024. He also could be the permanent fix at left tackle should Becton regress or fail to meet expectations in what seems to be a prove-it year for his career. There's a home for Johnson in the Big Apple.
Would GM Joe Douglas pull the trigger when on the clock?
Pittsburgh Steelers - No. 17
If Arizona is Johnson's ceiling, Pittsburgh is his floor. The Steelers feel as if former first-rounder Kenny Pickett is the heir apparent to Ben Roethlisberger after a rocky rookie year. The best way to cement his status as QB1 is by stabilizing the trenches.
James Daniels and Mason Cole were quality finds last year in free agency, and Issac Semulo should fortify the interior line. Both Dan Moore and Chukwuma Okorafor had up-and-down campaigns last season in pass protection, so it would make sense to replace one of them. Johnson allowed little to no pressure with a pocket-passing quarterback last season in Columbus, so the switch from Stroud to Pickett should be effortless.
Be sure to stay locked into BuckeyesNow all the time!Join the BuckeyesNow community!
Subscribe to the BuckeyesNow YouTube channel
Follow BuckeyesNow on Twitter: @BuckeyesNow_FN
Follow BuckeyesNow on Instagram: @BuckeyesNow_FN
