Carolina Panthers fans might’ve been caught off guard when general manager Scott Fitterer and company traded up to the 80th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft. And they might’ve been caught even more off guard by the name on that card.
Nonetheless, the project out of the University of Oregon is set to begin.
One of the most unique prospects in the class, the potent pass rusher DJ Johnson served in multiple positions during his four-year career in Eugene. The linebacker made the transition to tight end during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign—having caught 10 passes for 113 yards and three touchdowns in the process.
Then, during his senior year in 2022, Johnson was finally able to settle down into his role as a classic rush backer. He even had a coming out party—totaling bests with 39 tackles (8.5 for a loss) and 6.5 sacks.
While the 6-foot-4, 260-pounder’s athletic profile and size is that of a first-rounder, his rawness at the spot dropped him down to the third round. It will be up to the Carolina coaching staff to bring the 24-year-old up to speed in his rookie season.
Part of the reason the front office likely felt comfortable taking a chance on Johnson, is the defensive coaching staff they put together. The group, of course, is headed by one of the fastest rising and most respected minds in the game—defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero.
There is a clear need for an edge rusher opposite Brian Burns as Yetur Gross-Matos has not exactly fit the bill—and it is likely Johnson will be given every opportunity to earn that role. He is already an effective rusher despite his lack of a premier tool box and is a big piece of clay waiting to be molded.
If he can pick up on some of the finer details of the craft, Johnson could be a surprise rookie for Carolina.
| Tackles | Tackles for loss | Sacks |
| 24 | 9.0 | 7.0 |
