With the 17th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Chargers draft Zion Johnson, offensive guard out of Boston College. Johnson is arguably the most pro-ready offensive guard in the entire draft, meaning he should be an instant contributor as a rookie. Let’s take a look at the Chargers’ newest offensive lineman.
Zion Johnson Highlights
Chargers Draft Zion Johnson | 2022 NFL Draft Profile
Zion Johnson
Position: Offensive Guard
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 312 lbs
Age: 22
College: Boston College Eagles
Zion Johnson Draft Profile
Strengths
Zion Johnson has the perfect frame to be an NFL guard, playing at 6-3, 312 pounds. Coincidentally, it looks a bit like Zion Williamson the last time I saw him. Johnson is a plug-and-play guard for a team that drafts him, possibly being the readiest offensive guard in the draft. He has no wasted movements, great fundamentals and he will move anyone he latches onto.
While Johnson is clearly a guard in the NFL and he played at left guard last season, he was the left tackle for Boston College the year prior, so he has some versatility if need be.
Weaknesses
Johnson could work on pass protection a bit. There were times when stunts confused him or caused a miscommunication on the Boston College offensive line. He’s also not hyper-athletic or super quick, but that isn’t a necessity at guard in the NFL.
RELATED | Full Zion Johnson NFL Draft Profile and Highlights
What to Expect From Zion Johnson in 2022
As stated above, Zion Johnson may be the most NFL-ready offensive guard in the entire draft, and he is a true offensive guard. He has the perfect frame and build to be a great interior offensive lineman in the NFL. While he needs to continue improving in pass protection, diagnosing different stunts, he immediately improves the running and should be expected to start at guard in Week 1 for the Los Angeles Chargers.
