Tyron Johnson
Talk about coming out of nowhere. Elevated from the practice squad against Tampa Bay, Tyron Johnson made a huge splash out of the gate with a 53-yard touchdown. His dangerous speed was on full display. The next week against the Saints, he was solid as a kick returner.
It was quiet for a bit during the season until he settled into a role around the midpoint. Guyton had 295 yards and two touchdowns from Week 11 to Week 17. The main development I saw is that he was a noticeably better route runner. He knew how to run the deep route for a big touchdown already, but running quality intermediate routes in conjunction with that was a big step.
On 26 targets, Johnson had zero drops in 2020. In comparison to Guyton who tries to catch with his body, Johnson has soft hands that allow Herbert to drop the rock in there firmly. 4.3 speed and a good route tree is an amazing combination for any receiver.
Justin Herbert finds Tyron Johnson for TD before half!
He is ONE TD away from the all-time rookie passing TD record ?
?: #LACvsLV on NFLN/FOX/PRIME VIDEO pic.twitter.com/gdNQoSs7NR
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) December 18, 2020
How he played and demonstrated his talent reminded me of what Johnson was supposed to be in college. He was a five-star recruit at LSU for a reason and may end up developing his potential in the NFL.
We’re a long way away from Johnson becoming wide receiver two or three, but he showed so much potential by growing into a significant receiving role. Performing as he did late in the season after initially being on the practice squad? It’s insane growth relative to what was expected of him prior to the season.