Clay Johnston says his biggest strengths are hit power and football IQ

Clay Johnston brings a ton of energy to the defense.

Clay Johnston didn’t get much attention on the national landscape when the Los Angeles Rams drafted him in the seventh round. But among Rams fans and those close to the organization, there was a lot of excitement about the pick – in part because of the energy Johnston brought to the phone call after the Rams drafted him.

Johnston’s draft stock was hurt by the fact that he tore his ACL in October, but there are a lot of reasons to feel good about this selection. In just six games for Baylor last season, Johnston still had 58 tackles and 2.5 sacks, as well as eight tackles for loss and an interception. He was named second-team All-Big 12 despite missing most of the season, which is an indicator of how well he played in limited action.

Johnston may not be the fastest or most athletic linebacker, but he’s a smart player who’s great against the run. Two of Johnston’s biggest strengths, according to the linebacker himself, are his hit power and intelligence on the field.

“I think I can bring the punch if I get a good read on the play. I think I can bring some power when I hit someone, honestly, so I think that’s a decent trait,” Johnston said in a recent interview. “But I think I’m smart on the field, more than anything. I think with the help of coaches and them teaching me all the schematics, I think I can apply that – that would bear its fruit out on the field. I think that’s a strong trait of mine.”

Johnston only forced one fumble in his college career, but he’s like a heat-seeking missile in the middle of the field, showing good range and instincts after the snap. Take a look at some of these plays he made in just one game.

Johnston will first have to make the team before he can make an impact on defense, but with the Rams lacking proven talent at linebacker currently, Johnston has a great chance to be on the roster in Week 1.

As long as he’s healthy, Johnston will be a player to watch at linebacker in 2020.