Buffalo Bills: Why the Bills think so highly of safety Jaquan Johnson
By Daniel Bruce
Where Johnson thrives
Johnson was exceptional at creating turnovers at the University of Miami, and being one of the most impactful players for the team in his last two seasons.
In his last two seasons with Miami, the safety accumulated 188 tackles, six interceptions, 1 sack and 5 forced fumbles. A dynamic playmaker that was always effective in creating big plays for his defense, he was a consistent holder of the turnover chain over his last two seasons.
Johnson forces plenty of fumbles using the exact technique shown above, he drives in late on the ball carrier and either targets the ball with his shoulder/helmet or rips it out of the ball carriers hands.
The sophomore safety has a great football IQ, being the captain of the defense in his last two seasons with Miami, quarterbacking the unit.
He has great play recognition, he can diagnose pass/run plays very well and with his lack of explosiveness he needs that fast processing to be a step ahead of the offense.
Johnson makes a great play coming attacking the line of scrimmage on option running play, he patiently waits for the quarterback to pitch the ball to the wide receiver and then immediately makes the break for the tackle for loss.
Not usually involved in many running plays, usually patrolling the deep half of the field, Johnson isn’t afraid to attack the line with power.
A great tackler despite his small frame, he rarely misses tackles which contributes to his gaudy tackle numbers with Miami. Joe Marino describes his tackling and the rare efficiency he shows for a small guy.
"Plays above his weight class as a tackler. Aggressively attacks the ball carrier and does well to wrap low and bring his feet through contact. Rarely whiffs and puts himself in good position to finish. Will occasionally concede some yardage after contact on account of his size but his contact power and balance is excellent."
He is always attacking the line of scrimmage and never shies away from contact. A competitive, natural leader and playmaker there’s no wonder the Bills appreciate Johnson’s game as much as they do.