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Tez Johnson

Tez Johnson Player Profile

Summary

Tez Johnson was selected in the 7th round (235th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. NFL Draft Buzz He played college football at Troy before transferring to Oregon, where he posted a strong 2023 (86 catches for 1,182 yards and 10 touchdowns) and followed with another productive senior year (83 catches, 898 yards, 10 TDs). Sports Reference Johnson is known for his perseverance, route-running craft, and ability to create separation despite a smaller frame (5′10″, ~165 lbs). PlayerProfiler Early in his NFL career, he’s shown big-play potential with speed and a willingness to compete, making him a high-upside developmental target.

Strengths

  • Route-running savvy: He uses tempo changes, head/shoulder fakes, and precise footwork to manipulate defensive leverage. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Explosive after catch: Excellent acceleration and change-of-direction make him dangerous in YAC situations. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Spatial awareness: Finds soft spots in the defense, especially in zone coverage, and consistently presents himself as a target. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Ball tracking & contested catch ability: Despite his size, he tracks deep balls well and can high-point passes. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Good hands: Very reliable receiver, rarely drops passes relative to his targets.

  • Speed: Ran a 40-yard dash in ~4.51 seconds, showing good straight-line quickness. Sportskeeda

  • Character / resilience: Overcame early life challenges and showed determination through his college journey. NFL Draft Buzz

Weaknesses

  • Undersized: At ~165 lb, his frame raises questions about durability and physical matchups at the NFL level. PlayerProfiler

  • Limited top-end speed: While fast, he’s not likely to consistently break away from tight deep coverage. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Rounded cuts: His change-of-direction isn't always sharp; he can be less smooth in tight cuts.

  • Release/Press challenges: Might struggle with physical corners and press situations due to his build.

  • Questionable volume projection: Because of size and contested-target concerns, his high-volume upside may be limited.

  • Injury risk: A lighter frame could make him more susceptible to physical wear, especially over a long NFL season.

Fit & Outlook

Tez Johnson fits best in offensive schemes that emphasize quick-passing, tempo, and YAC opportunities — think spread offenses or sub-packages where he can operate in the slot or out wide on timing routes. His strong route-running, spatial awareness, and ability to create separation make him ideal for a role where he isn’t just a gadget player but a real chain-mover. He can also contribute as a returner or in special teams, thanks to his speed and elusiveness.

Looking ahead, Johnson’s outlook is as a high-upside developmental receiver. While he may not be an immediate star, he has the traits to carve out a meaningful role: if he continues to refine his release, adds strength, and builds trust with his quarterback, he could become a reliable possession / slot target with big-play ability. His character and work ethic provide a strong foundation, and in a few years, he could be a key rotational piece or even a starter, particularly in slot-heavy or three-receiver sets.