Jamar Johnson Profile
| Full Name | Jamar Johnson |
|---|---|
| Age | 25 |
| Birthday | May 16, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Height | 6‘1" |
| Weight | 205 lbs |
| Position | Safety |
| Draft | 2021 – Round 5, Pick 152 |
| College | Indiana University |
| NFL Team | Denver Broncos |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram |
As a longtime fan and analyst of Jamar Johnson‘s football career, I‘m thrilled to provide an in-depth introduction to this talented young safety. Ever since his high school days in Indianapolis, Johnson has shown exceptional ability on the field along with the work ethic and character to succeed at the highest levels.
Early Life and High School
Jamar Johnson was born on May 16, 1998 in his hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana. He attended Ben Davis High School, where he was ranked as a top 10 safety in the state of Indiana.
In his junior season, Johnson recorded 55 tackles and 2 interceptions while helping lead Ben Davis to a state championship. As a senior, he put up even more impressive numbers with 95 tackles, 5 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles. He received all-state honors for his tremendous production.
Johnson was a leader on and off the field in high school. His talent, combined with a tireless work ethic in the weight room, made him one of the top defensive back prospects in the Midwest. He committed to play college football at Indiana University.
Standout College Career at Indiana
Upon arriving at Indiana in 2017, Johnson immediately saw action as a backup safety and on special teams. He recorded 10 tackles while learning the defense as a true freshman.
Johnson earned a starting safety job in 2018 and had a breakout sophomore campaign. He led the team with 4 interceptions, adding 65 tackles and 7 passes defensed. For his efforts, he was named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention.
The 2019 season was Johnson‘s masterpiece. He led the Indiana defense with 85 tackles and 4 more interceptions, showcasing his unique playmaking instincts. Johnson seemed to always be around the ball, whether it was picking off passes or coming up to stuff the run. He again received All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors.
In just 3 seasons, Johnson racked up impressive stats including 260 tackles, 13 passes defensed, and 8 interceptions. He declared for the NFL Draft after establishing himself as one of the top defensive backs in the Big Ten conference.
2021 NFL Draft Selection
Johnson was projected by many analysts as a Day 2 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft after his exceptional college production. At the NFL Combine, he posted strong numbers like a 36-inch vertical jump and 4.5 40-yard dash at 6‘1", 205 pounds.
The Denver Broncos selected Johnson in the 5th round with the 152nd overall pick. They saw him as a developmental prospect with the raw skills to potentially replace veteran Kareem Jackson at safety someday.
While he slipped lower than expected, Johnson joined a talented Broncos secondary where he could learn from veterans. I saw this as an ideal fit for Johnson‘s abilities.
Promising Rookie Season in Denver
As expected, Johnson started out his rookie season as a backup and special teamer. He appeared in 11 games, making just 5 tackles as he adjusted to the NFL.
However, Johnson gained invaluable experience in Ejiro Evero‘s defensive system. He took advantage of every practice rep and film session. I noticed veterans Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson took Johnson under their wing.
Entering 2022, a starting safety spot is open after Jackson‘s departure. Now in his second year, Johnson has a prime opportunity to take on a significant role. Based on his steady improvement, I expect him to capitalize. Johnson has always seized chances to play bigger parts going back to high school.
Sky-High Potential for the Future
While Jamar Johnson is still raw, I see elite tools that could make him a top NFL safety in time. His instincts and ball skills are rare – he reads plays so quickly and gets himself in position to make an impact. In coverage, Johnson is sticky and allows little separation. Against the run, he‘s proven he can step up and be a fierce hitter.
With more coaching and experience, I expect Johnson to keep getting better each season. His work ethic is unmatched. I believe the sky‘s the limit for Johnson‘s development under defensive mastermind Evero in Denver.
Jamar Johnson has all the makings of a household name at safety. Keep an eye on number 26 – he could soon be one of the NFL‘s biggest defensive playmakers.
