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Robert Johnson-- The Answer to Chicago's Free Safety Blues

Robertjohson_medium

 

No, not the legendary Blues guitarist. But the unheralded Free Safety from Utah who is paying Lovie and Co a visit today.

Firstly, he didn't get a combine invite-- can't seem to figure out why but that is part of the reason he has flown under the radar. Here is what some say about him:

Positives: A true center fielder, ballhawking safety with great range, 13 career interceptions in three seasons, including a career high six in 2009... Very athletic, should post good workout numbers and could improve his stock this post-season... Has good instincts, does a nice job reading the QBs eyes to read and react to plays... Leader, good work ethic, very vocal on the field... Has stepped up in big games, two picks in Utah's 2009 Sugar Bowl win over Alabama.

Negatives: Not much of a factor in the run game, needs to work on tackling and filling gaps... Could stand to add some muscle mass... Has over-pursued plays on occasion and missed tackles... Struggles in man coverage... Needs to track the ball better when players get behind him... Does not have fluid hips and is a little slow in the backpedal.

Every player that ever came out has had some negatives but the fact is he was never asked to be a run stopper. Adding mass-- should come with age and NFL training regimens. Man coverage is not essential for a Center Fielding free safety. And I'm not sure I follow the fluid hips comment; his times in the cone drills were off the charts and he looks VERY fluid in his pro-day videos. Moreover, the guy just produces in big game and has an amazing attitude and great leadership skills.

 

In short: I want him. Take the time to watch these two vids, I think you'll feel the same way.

 

1. His play on the field:

2. His intangibles and character off the field

Just as I called Afalava out as a starter when he was still sitting back in Oregon as a sixth round pick throughout most of the off-season last year, I'm predicting that if this guy gets drafted he'll be our day one starter at FS.

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This FanPost was written by a Windy City Gridiron member, and does not necessarily reflect the ideas or opinions of its staff or community.

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