Ohio State OL Paris Johnson Names 3 Preferred Draft Destinations; Falcons Included?

In a recent interview, Ohio State Buckeyes offensive lineman Paris Johnson listed the Atlanta Falcons as one of his top three most desirable NFL Draft landing spots.

The Atlanta Falcons have an admirer in one of the top offensive lineman prospects.

In the latest episode of “Bussin’ With The Boys,” Ohio State offensive tackle Paris Johnson named the Falcons one of his top three preferred draft destinations, alongside the Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans.

Atlanta holds the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, and the versatile offensive lineman could be an enticing option for the franchise.

As a sophomore, Johnson started 13 games at right guard and was named second-team All-Big Ten. In 2022 he moved to left tackle and had even more success, being named a second-team Associated Press All-American and earning first-team All-Big Ten honors.

During Johnson’s junior season, he didn’t allow a sack on any of his 449 pass-blocking snaps, that includes his matchup against arguably the top prospect in this draft class, Georgia Bulldog Jalen Carter, in the College Football Playoffs.

At the NFL Combine, Johnson measured 6-6 and weighed 313 pounds, displaying impressive strength by recording 29 reps on the bench press. 

The strongman out of Ohio State has expressed a willingness to play anywhere on the offensive line outside of the center position. Thanks to his physical profile, Johnson provides perhaps the highest upside of any lineman. 

As for the Falcons, their offensive line went from being ranked as Pro Football Focus’ 28th-ranked unit to No. 5 by the end of the regular season.

Much of Atlanta’s success can be attributed to their dominant rushing attack, but if they fortify their trenches by drafting Johnson, it could allow potential starter Desmond Ridder to have more time passing from a clean pocket in 2023. 

---

You can follow Isaiah DeAnda Delgado on Twitter and Instagram @IsaiahDDelgado.

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Falcons? Click Here.

Follow Falcon Report on Twitter.

Want even more Atlanta Falcons news? Check out the SI.com team page here.