Herman Johnson OG 6'7 364 LSU 5.51

Johnson played in every game as a freshman, even earning one start during the 2005 season. A year later he started ten games for the Tigers, playing both right and left guard. Johnson was entrenched at left guard last year, and had a fantastic season, earning 1st team All SEC honors. He again earned All SEC honors as a senior, but this time he tacked on All American honors to go along with it.

Strengths

Anyone with the nickname ‘House’ has to be big. That is an understatement in Johnson’s case. Johnson may be the biggest lineman since Aaron Gibson played for Wisconsin in the late 90's. Johnson stands out even amongst his fellow offensive lineman. He plays with tremendous natural strength, and has the ability to flat out dominate defenders at the point of attack. His wingspan and strength allow him to neutralize the defender even if he gets beat off the snap because all he needs to do is put his hands on you, and you are taken off course. Johnson is actually pretty nimble in a small area, so he goes a good job picking up blocks and opening running lanes for his backs.

Weaknesses

His size is much more of an advantage, but Johnson does need to watch his weight. He can creep towards 400lbs, and that could cause problems in the NFL. As strong as he is, he will have problems with interior lineman that fire off the snap if he isn’t in good shape. Johnson probably will not be asked to pull much in the NFL because he is too stiff and simply too massive to pick up blockers in space and on the move.

Future

Herman Johnson is a monster, and anyone employing a power running game has to love him as a prospect. He simply man handles defenders in the running game and should continue to do so in the NFL. Some are concerned about his massive size and how effect he will be if he can’t get himself in check, but he carries it well right now. He played some tackle at the Senior Bowl but will stay inside in the NFL. The size concerns may cause him to drop a bit, but he should still be taken in the Top 100 picks come April.