Dorian

Johnson

Johnson was a highly ranked prospect who fell to the fourth round of this year’s draft simply because of medical concerns, so it is surprising to see him on the cut list. The Cardinals likely hope he will slip through waivers and to their practice squad.

Johnson (6’5/300) made 42 starts on the Panthers’ line, dabbling at left tackle and right guard as a freshman before settling in at left guard for his final three years. He was a first-team All-ACC pick as a senior. Just a 33rd-percentile athlete, Johnson compensates in pass protection with exceptional arm length (35 ¼") and huge hands (10 7/8"), and showed down-to-down reliability on tape. This year’s top-ranked guard by “many teams” according to Draft Analyst’s Tony Pauline, Johnson has a chance to develop into a long-term starter on the interior. It was reported that Johnson has a liver issue, leading to a drop to the third day.

One of this year’s top ranked guards, Johnson fell to Day 3 over concerns with his liver issue. Johnson has pro-ready traits and a clear path to playing time, but the Cardinals have a history of not starting rookies on their offensive line. First round LB Haason Reddick and second round S Budda Baker are Arizona’s only unsigned picks.