We have reached that point in our 2012 NFL Draft Prospect Profile series where we are looking for small-school players or guys who have not gotten a lot of attention. A player who fits that mold is Montana cornerback Trumaine Johnson.
This is a player who, at 6-foot-2, 204 pounds, has the type of size at his position that will get the attention of New York Giants general manager Jerry Reese. He also has the flexibility to get a look at either corner or safety, and Walter Football says he is "a bit of a tweener."
There are some character concerns with Johnson, whom most analysts see Johnson as a second- to third-round pick. Let's take a closer look.
Wes Bunting of the National Football Post says:
A tall, good-looking prospect with some natural girth to his frame, but isn't bulky. Is still lean enough in his lower half to turn a run. Possesses good length and overall strength for the position as well. Has an ideal frame to be a press cover man and is a solid tackler in the run game. ... A talented kid who physically/athletic reminds me a lot of Jimmy Smith (Baltimore Ravens). Now, he's not as experienced as a pressman as Smith was, but has the same type of upside and can be a similar player if he commits himself fully to the game at the next.
CBS Sports says "He seems smooth and instinctive on defense, especially when going for the ball. His size and overall athleticism are impressive, but scouts question whether he has the quickness to compete with NFL receivers."
Pro Football Weekly says:
Safety-sized with movement skills, Johnson has long arms, press ability and was recruited as a receiver. Skill set will be in demand, but he will have to land in a disciplined, structured environment to maximize his potential.
Does that, by the way, make you think of any teams in particular?
Trumaine Johnson Profile
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 204
School: Montana
40 time:
2011 Stats: