Manor 2014 linebacker prospect Jonathan Johnson (#28)
In TA’s CenTex Legit Football Combine coming up this
weekend, (June 29) one prospect to certainly watch for is Jonathan “Jay Jay”
Johnson, outside linebacker for the Manor Mustangs and a 2014 prospect.
During the spring, Johnson was featured as TA’s 25th-ranked
athlete on his “Surety 30” list, and also looks to be listed in the Top 30
summer rankings, as well.
In his junior season, Johnson led the Mustangs in sacks, was
second overall in tackles and interceptions and was also awarded First Team
All-District honors. Johnson was also a key contributor in helping the Mustangs
reach the Class 4A State Semi-Finals.
The outside linebacker has already picked up 2 FBS offers
from Texas State and Old Dominion, while picking up 1 FCS offers from Prairie
View A&M. He has also sparked the attention of the coaching staff at TCU
and plans on making an unofficial visit to Fort Worth on July 26.
One aspect of Johnson’s game college coaches are high on is
his size. At 6’1’’, 220 pounds (also benching 352 pounds) he has the size and
power to take down big offensive players. Johnson’s strength can definitely be
accredited to his decision to compete on his school’s power lifting team, where
he was able to make it to the regional round this past season.
“I definitely see powerlifting as an advantage for myself on
the football field. I also think it (strength) helps separate me from other
recruits” said Johnson.
Another aspect of his game that is gaining college attention
is his ability to get to the ball. The aforementioned statistics of Johnson
leading his team in sacks and being second in interceptions last fall are some
areas in which his speed aids. Whether it’s rushing into the backfield, which
Johnson considers the strongest point of his game, or even having to drop back
and cover quick receivers, his 4.6 40 speed is not to be taken lightly.
When asked about playing at the next level, Johnson said
that he think he can “make a huge impact at the next level...especially with my
size and speed.”
While he is expected to pull in more college offers, Johnson
is hoping to sign with a program in the Big 12 conference and thinks he can be
a good contributor in a 3-4 defense.
“The Big 12 has all of my favorite schools and I like the
talent and competition level in that conference,” said Johnson.
So far this summer, Johnson has attended camps by the likes
of SMU, Rice and also the Ultimate 100, which was held at Duncanville High
School. He is still waiting on feedback.
Being named the MVP in the National Underclassmen Combine in
Austin last year, Johnson is looking to add another top notch combine
performance at TA’s combine coming up.
“I’m so ready (for the combine). I’m ready to compete and
show good defense...in one-on-one’s and everything. I’m ready to go,” commented
Johnson.
TA’s Scouting Scoop: "One of those diamonds in the
rough. He has the highest motor of any linebacker or defender on this list. He
is very relentless and gets to the ball faster than any other linebacker in
Central Texas. He is also very athletic, has good feet and never over pursues
the ball carrier. He does a great job when asked to drop back in pass coverage
and can cover swift running backs. He uses his hands well and knows how to
fight off blocks. He also does not miss tackles."
- Ashleigh D., Intern
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