The 2024 NFL draft is being touted as one of the best in recent memory when it comes to receiving talent. Multiple top-end wide receivers, pass-catching running backs, and a potentially generational tight end in Georgia’s Brock Bowers will give NFL teams plenty of options for improving their passing games.
Penn State doesn’t have any wide receivers expected to be selected, but they do have a potential difference-maker at tight end. [autotag]Theo Johnson[/autotag] had a solid career at Penn State despite not being heavily utilized, scoring 12 touchdowns despite just 76 catches and 100 targets. His size at 6’6″ and nearly 260 lbs make him a physical presence as a blocker and as a runner with the ball in his hands,
Looking at potential NFL players to compare him to is difficult with so many tight ends being glorified receivers in the modern game, but one player stands out as a high-end comp: Bears tight end Cole Kmet.
Kmet has nearly identical size (6’6″, 260) and is a phenomenal blocker with enough receiving ability to be a factor in the passing game. He isn’t particularly fast, but he is quick in short areas just like Johnson is. He isn’t a dominant blocker but holds his own in pass protection and uses his size to wall off defenders in the run game. Nobody looks at Kmet and says he is a true “weapon” or is somebody defenses are scared of, but he has been a reliable target for Justin Fields and is a net positive for the offense.
If Johnson can develop into that kind of player at the next level, he could be worth a relatively early day 2 pick. Right now, his projection ranges anywhere from the 2nd-5th round depending on where you look, but teams will value his well-rounded skill set. The other tight ends behind Bowers are mostly pure receivers or blockers, so Johnson could stand out in that group.
Johnson has his flaws as a player, but he could easily become a better player as a pro than he was collegiately.