5 offensive prospects for Vikings to watch at the East-West Shrine Bowl
By Nik Edlund
Tyler Johnson – WR (Minnesota)
Here’s a player the Vikings should already be extremely familiar with since he played in their backyard all season long.
Tyler Johnson had a huge season for the Gophers in 2019, hauling in 86 receptions for 1,318 yards and 13 touchdowns. He’s one of the biggest names playing in the East-West Shrine Bowl and he should get plenty of attention from every scout that is in attendance.
Johnson has the look of an NFL receiver with his thick frame and route-running ability. He shines brightest in the biggest spots and was key in the Gophers upsetting Auburn in the Outback Bowl this year.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Johnson is usually sure-handed. He did have a few costly drops this season, but most of the time he hauls in everything that comes his way.
Johnson isn’t afraid to go up and battle for a ball with a defender. He often wins those battles, as he knows when to elevate, giving himself the high ground over his defender. Johnson isn’t a burner, but he does have deceptive deep speed. He’s also a willing blocker and he can help teams out in the run game.
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Johnson will be one of the first players drafted from those who are playing in this year’s East-West Shrine Bowl. He could go anywhere from the early second round to the end of the third, but he really shouldn’t slide into Day 3. He’d be a great fit with the Vikings and would be an early fan favorite due to his career and success with the Golden Gophers.