Cowboys bring in multi-faceted defender for pre-draft visit
It's been quite the turnaround for the Dallas Cowboys the last two years defensively under Dan Quinn. His unit has led the NFL in turnovers for two consecutive seasons, making them the first unit to do so since the Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s. However, despite re-signing linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, the Cowboys need another […]
It's been quite the turnaround for the Dallas Cowboys the last two years defensively under Dan Quinn.
His unit has led the NFL in turnovers for two consecutive seasons, making them the first unit to do so since the Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s. However, despite re-signing linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, the Cowboys need another body at the position due to 2022 rookie Damone Clark being the only other player with any viable production.
Dallas is doing their homework in this area, and they're bringing in Liberty LB/DE Durrell Johnson for a pre-draft visit.
Johnson started his collegiate career at ASA College in Brooklyn, New York. He would be named a two-time All-Conference honoree and a JUCO All-American before transferring to Liberty.
In 2020, Johnson made an immediate impact with 37 tackles (led the team with 10.5 tackles for loss), 8.5 sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble.
Johnson racked up 25 tackles (six tackles for loss) in 2021, and then he stepped his game up last season. He tallied 58 tackles and his 27.5 tackles for loss led the nation. Also, Johnson amassed nine sacks, an interception, four passes defended, a forced fumble, and three fumble recoveries.
Liberty allowed Johnson to put his hand in the dirt and be a stand-up edge rusher while also playing in the box as a linebacker and he can drop back in coverage. Being versatile is something Quinn loves in his players with the multiple looks and stunts he runs so Johnson is certainly someone that could come in and be taught the right way.
At 6'3" and 251 pounds, Johnson isn't the fastest guy with his 4.69 in the 40-yard dash. However, he did post a 36.5-inch vertical jump and a 10'4" in the broad jump, so he has some athleticism.
Johnson would be a perfect Day 3 pick for the Cowboys and he can add some much-needed juice to the linebacker room and contribute as an edge rusher as well.
