Summary

• Drafted: Round 1, 17th overall, in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. WCVB

• College: Boston College (after transferring from Davidson). SI

• Key Statistics / Career Notes: A three‑year starter at BC; exhibited strong versatility (played guard, tackle, and even took some center reps during Senior Bowl). SI At the NFL Combine, ran a 5.18 40‑yard dash, put up 32 bench reps, posted a 32″ vertical, and 7.38s three‑cone — very good testing for an interior lineman. SI

• Accolades / Character: First‑Team All‑ACC and First‑Team All‑America in 2021. NFL Clubs Known for his intelligence, leadership (team captain), and strong work ethic; also majored in cybersecurity. WCVB

Strengths

• Elite Athleticism & Footwork — Smooth mover, very good lateral mobility to mirror speed rushers and work in space. NFL Draft Buzz

• Run-Blocking Instincts — Smart, instinctive run‑blocker who can execute reach/scoop blocks, pull, and climb to second level. SI

• Power & Anchor — Maintains a wide base, re‑anchors well, and generates strong contact; effective against bull rushers. SI

• Versatility — Has experience at guard, tackle, and even some center work; valuable for flexibility. NFL Draft Buzz

• High Football IQ — Recognizes stunts, blitzes, shows good awareness, and understands blocking angles well. Last Word On Sports

• Leadership / Durability — Team captain at BC; stayed relatively healthy in college, with strong work ethic and competitive mentality. SI

• Testing & Strength — Strong combine performance: 32 bench press reps, excellent agility drills, showing both strength and athleticism. SI

Weaknesses

• Frame / Length for Tackle — At ~6’2″–6’3″, lacks ideal height for many tackle matchups, especially against long edge rushers. Yahoo Sports

• Consistency with Hand Technique — While he flashes good hand usage, he can be inconsistent in timing and placement, especially in pass‑pro. NFL Draft Buzz

• Pad Level / Leverage Issues — Sometimes plays too upright or high‑pad, which can make him vulnerable in anchor situations. NFL Draft Buzz

• Power vs Big Defensive Tackles — Not always a “people mover”; may struggle to consistently dominate very large DTs one‑on‑one. Yahoo Sports

• Recovery / Change of Direction — Though athletic, some scouts note less reliable recovery on stunts or counter moves; may get out‑maneuvered. Silver And Black Pride

• Snap / Technique Refinement — At times, his first step or punch timing is not optimal; could refine technique at the pro level. SI

Fit & Outlook

Zion Johnson projects as a key interior lineman for pro teams — especially in systems that value zone run schemes or gap‑scheme offenses. His versatility (guard, potential center, occasional tackle) gives teams flexibility, and his athleticism allows him to operate in space, pull, and handle second-level responsibilities. For the LA Chargers, he provides a strong anchor and an athletic blocker who can grow into a foundational starter. Long-term, if he continues to refine his technique (especially in pass protection) and leverage his functional strength, he has the potential to be a multi-year starter and a core piece of an offensive line — someone who may not be the most physically dominant but is technically precise, smart, and reliable.