Summary

Antonio Johnson was selected in the 5th Round (#160 Overall) in the 2023 Draft out of Texas A&M University. Johnson offers a compelling blend of size, athleticism, and versatility in the defensive backfield. His standout traits include his hybrid coverage ability, strong run‑support play, and ball‑skill instincts. However, he must improve in deep coverage, increase his physical robustness, and crystallise his role to maximise his potential. With the right developmental track and scheme fit, he has the tools to evolve into a high‑impact NFL defender.

Strengths

• Hybrid versatility & instincts
  Johnson has proven to be adaptable — capable of lining up in the slot, playing near the line of scrimmage, or dropping into deeper zones. His ability to process and react quickly in run support and underneath coverage is a standout trait. NFL Draft Buzz

• Physicality & run‑support ability
  Despite being a defensive back, he shows willingness and effectiveness in tackling, shedding blocks, and playing with aggression against the run. NFL Draft Buzz

• Ball skills & coverage fluidity
  He displays very good tracking of the ball, especially in zone or slot coverage. He also has experience covering receivers in man and slot roles, which many safeties don’t.

• Athleticism for his size
  At 6′2″ with near‑corner movement ability, he brings a rare combination of size, fluidity, and range for his role. CBS Sports

Weaknesses

• Deep coverage / long‑speed concerns
  While strong in the short and intermediate game, Johnson’s ability to consistently handle deep zone coverage and ultra‑fast receivers is flagged as a weakness. PFSN

• Frame and functional strength
  Although his height is ideal, at ~198 lbs he is somewhat light for the NFL strong safety/hybrid box role. He may face challenges when asked to anchor or take on bigger players regularly. WalterFootball

• Consistency in tackling and space‑play
  Some evaluations note that at times he hesitates or takes less than optimal angles in open‑field tackling or when required to cover a lot of ground. Also flagged for missing tackles or not finishing as consistently when blocked or engaged. PFSN

• Role clarity & projection
  Because he has played a variety of roles (slot corner, strong safety, nickel, box defender), some scouts are uncertain where his long‑term every‑down position will settle. That can impact how teams deploy him and his developmental trajectory. Dynasty Nerds

Fit & Outlook

Johnson is best suited for a defensive scheme that uses multiple sub‑packages, allows him to roam, attack downhill, and use his hybrid nature (slot coverage + box defender). He will likely thrive in roles where he is not the deepest free safety all the time, but rather a play‑maker around the line or in the slot. If Johnson can continue to develop his deep coverage skills, add a bit more strength, and refine his tackling consistency, his ceiling is a starting safety/hybrid who can be impactful in multiple roles. His floor remains a valuable rotational player with niche strengths — particularly in nickel/slot and box coverage.