The time has come—it is the week of the 2025 NFL Draft. Some of the top-selecting teams are preparing to finalize their decisions and ensure they make the right call on Thursday evening. With many things to consider when drafting a player, injury concerns may conquer all.
For Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, an injured knee appears to be a growing concern for interested NFL squads. With Johnson vastly projected to land in the top 10, how much does this shift the 6-foot-2 prospect’s stock?
2023 National Champion and Top Prospect May Slip From Top 10
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer recently touched on some of the top prospects having injury concerns entering the draft. Amongst the young stars on the list: Abdul Carter, Mykel Williams, Jihaad Campbell, Josh Simmons, and Shevon Revel.
Arguably, the most concerning could be the aforementioned Johnson. As the Michigan product gears up for draft night, Breer sees the wound as a potential turn-off for a handful of NFL clubs.
“Michigan CB Will Johnson has a knee issue that’s been flagged. It shouldn’t affect him in the short term, but teams are concerned it could impact his longevity. Add to the questions on Johnson’s long speed, which were not allayed when he decided not to run a 40, and the Wolverine star could slide.”
As the big day from Green Bay, Wisc. gets closer, should Johnson worry that he may plummet down draft boards?
How Far Does Johnson’s Injury Set Him Back?
Using PFSN’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft Simulator, Johnson remains in the top 10, going sixth overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. The status of the aggressive and fiery corner may remain unknown until closer to the season; regardless, PFSN’s Jacob Infante views Johnson as one of the more intriguing prospects in the entire draft.
“Johnson entered the 2024 college football season as a likely first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and he certainly remains at that level in the offseason.
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“There’s not too much to overthink with Johnson, as he’s an intelligent cornerback with all the physical tools needed to thrive at the NFL level. He’s big with long arms and moves with impressive fluidity in coverage, and that in itself would have him firmly on teams’ radars.
“The physical tools are obvious, but the playmaking mentality and route recognition make him a seriously valuable prospect. He gets the most out of his tools because of his aggression in coverage.”
With growing doubt on the cornerback’s long-term health, will we see the two-time All-American slide?
