Grading the pick: The Miami Dolphins draft CB Chris Johnson at No. 27 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft
With the 27th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins have selected CBChris Johnson
With the No. 27 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins have selected San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson.
After locking in one new foundational piece earlier on Thursday night with the selection of OT Kadyn Proctor with the 12th overall pick, Miami now secures a second centerpiece of the Jon-Eric Sullivan & Jeff Hafley era. This pick, which serves as the most direct addition via the Jaylen Waddle trade, gives Miami a fresh imprint on their cornerback room and Hafley’s specialty.
Here’s what you need to know about the pick and how Johnson projects to the NFL.
What to know about CB Chris Johnson
Age: 21
A to Z Sports Draft Projection: Immediate Good Starter
Career Projection:
” If Chris Johnson had played at Florida State instead of San Diego State, he would have probably been considered a lock to go top-10 during the pre-draft process. That’s how good his film was in college. You look at both his analytical profile and his film, and he screams lockdown corner. At 6-0 and close to 200 pounds, he ran in the 4.4s at the Combine and jumped nearly 40 inches in the vert.
He projects as a do-it-all corner at the next level. He has the traits and demeanor to go out there and lock down opposing wide receiver No.1’s, but he can also kick inside and man the point of a bunch set. He’s a technician who never looks panicked and makes so many plays in phase, trusting his spatial awareness and instincts. He projects to be a quality starter.”
Rob Gregson
A to Z Sports NFL
Grading the Dolphins selection of CB Chris Johnson
If you had your Jon-Eric Sullivan/Packers BINGO card out, this one punched a lot of boxes. He’s young, just 21 years old. Johnson is a defensive back, which Sullivan’s draft efforts over the years in Green Bay have targeted often. He’s a PLUS culture player who is well regarded for his football character.
Yes, it fills a need. But more importantly, Johnson’s addition ends up bringing all of the same things that Miami’s cornerback room already coveted. The Dolphins have spent this offseason plucking 6-foot corners with length and physicality. Johnson has size. He’s a plus tackler and run support player. And as of 2025, he’s grown to take the football away.
Yes, Johnson played at a smaller program. The Dolphins don’t seem to care. They’re convicted in the player and the person, as evidenced by the trade up to get him.
Grade: B+
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