Hakeem Johnson NFL Draft Profile and Scouting Report

Hakeem Johnson Scouting Report: Cornerback, Samford

2023 NFL Draft Measurements

Hakeem Johnson 40 time: 4.54

6’2″ 200 lbs.

Hakeem Johnson Draft Report

Hakeem Johnson is a cornerback from Liberty High School in Virginia. Johnson started out by redshirting at West Virginia State in 2016, before transferring to the University of Sioux Falls. Then, Johnson started all 11 games in 2018. He was named to the Honorable Mention Don Hansen All-American team. After winning numerous awards at Sioux Falls, Johnson transferred to Samford University.

Physicality and Athleticism

Johnson has the size, speed, and athleticism to excel in the NFL. He tested very strongly in all drills, which indicates his speed and agility. He is able to keep up with the quickest of receivers and is able to fluidly backpedal when in pass coverage. This allows him to stay right with the receiver and break up passes. His agility allows him to quickly change directions, giving him the ability to cover a wide range of receivers.

He also has exceptional leaping ability, allowing him to outjump opponents for deflected passes and interceptions. His quickness and agility also make him adept at covering receivers in both man and zone coverage. He is able to keep up with the quickest of receivers and is able to fluidly backpedal when in pass coverage. This allows him to stay right with the receiver and break up passes. His agility allows him to quickly change directions, giving him the ability to cover a wide range of receivers. 

One of Hakeem’s greatest strengths is his physicality. He has a strong, muscular frame and can stand up to the toughest of wide receivers. He has a great ability to jam wideouts at the line of scrimmage, and he can pack a powerful punch when tackling. Johnson is not afraid to take on the challenge of putting his body on the line to make a play on the ball. 

Awareness

Johnson has an incredible football IQ and a great understanding of defensive schemes. He reads the field well and can anticipate where the ball is going before it even gets to the receiver. He has the ability to recognize plays quickly and make the correct adjustments to put himself in the best position to make a play.

Johnsons mental processing and football intelligence are impressive. He is able to read offensive formations quickly and adjust accordingly. This is not only helpful in coverage, but also in run support. He is a smart player who understands the nuances of the game. Johnson is a leader on the field who is not afraid to take charge and make sure his teammates are in the right position. 

Ball Skills

Johnson is a highly competitive and determined player with excellent ball skills. He had 19 pass breakups and five interceptions in his collegiate career, demonstrating his ability to read the quarterbacks eyes and break on the ball. His handeye coordination and timing make him an excellent pass defender. 

Hakeem Johnson NFL Draft Stock

Like almost all of our small school athletes, I would expect Johnson to go on day 3 or be an undrafted free agent. His size and athleticism should get him on some radars though. Don’t sleep on smaller schools.

Hakeem Johnson Player Comparison

I believe Hakeem Johnson‘s play style is most similar to that of Philadelphia Eagles cornerback James Bradberry. Their size, physicality, and ability to close in on opposing players are very similar. They even both went to Samford.