Lane Johnson lands on the list at number 14. Johnson was selected fourth overall by the Philadelphia Eagles of this year’s draft. While there was much controversy on whether or not the team should trade the pick, they decided to keep it and select Johnson. It is expected to be a good move by the Eagles, but it is still yet to be seen how Lane can adjust to the NFL level.
The main reason why Lane Johnson is going to make an impact for the Eagles next year is his athleticism. He is so freakishly athletic that he was an all-state quarterback in high school. The skills Johnson posses truly sets him apart from many offensive lineman. Going into the draft he was highly regarded as the most athletic lineman in his class.
Nfl.com’s draft analyst Mike Mayock had this to say when the Eagles drafted Johnson.
I think he makes a ton of sense — he’s the most athletic offensive tackle in the draft. Chip Kelly’s gonna run an up-tempo (offense) and maximize the number of snaps per game. He’s gotta have offensive linemen that can run, that are in great shape.”
Mayock’s analysis is spot on. New head Coach Chip Kelly is fully expected to have a high speed offense. In training camp, Kelly has announced that he plans to run a play every 12 seconds. 12 seconds is going to require a offensive lineman that has endurance, and can get up the field, which is exactly what Johnson brings to the table.
Lane Johnson is also number 14 on this list because he instantly helps an offensive line that really struggled last season. The Eagles allowed 48 sacks last season, which clearly is not good at all. Picking an offensive lineman was a must for the birds this year, and it is going to pay dividends right away. He was selected so early because he is NFL ready, and because he is going to help prevent Michael Vick or Nick Foles from being sacked. Lane Johnson is going to be a major impact player next year for the Eagles, and will look to improve the teams numbers in sacks allowed.
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