2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report - Jesse Johnson III

Jesse Johnson III

Position: Cornerback - Nickel/Dime

College: Austin Peay State University

Height: 5' 11"

Weight: 168 lbs

Class: Senior

Newt Westen

After stops at Eastern Illinois University (2020) and Tiffin University (2021-2023), Johnson capped off his collegiate career with a standout season at Austin Peay. As a two-star prospect, he has developed into a productive and adaptable player, showcasing his ability to perform in a variety of roles and against varying levels of competition. His strong showing against FCS and FBS talent during his senior season highlights his capability to compete at higher levels.

Strengths:

• Versatility: Logged snaps as both a box safety and an outside corner, displaying flexibility in his defensive assignments.

• Tackling: Exceptional in run support and open-field situations, including a highlight play against Louisville, where he tracked a running back across the field for a crucial tackle in open space. Do not be fooled by his weight profile, he is a physical player at the tackle point.

• Ball Skills: Disruptive at the catch point and has a knack for creating turnovers. He is credited with 2 PBUs, 4 INTs, and a 59.8 NFL passer rating against during his 2024 campaign.

Weaknesses:

• Frame: Very light build for the position; needs to add 10-15 pounds of muscle to handle the physicality of NFL-level competition.

• Coverage Concerns: Played very soft in coverage at outside corner, prioritizing not getting beat by double moves but frequently giving up underneath routes too easily.

• Athleticism: Lacks explosive traits, which may limit his ceiling against quicker, more athletic competition.

• Level of Competition: While he performed admirably against Louisville, the majority of his collegiate experience came against lower competition levels, creating questions about his NFL readiness.

Summary:
Jesse Johnson III is a developmental prospect who will likely project best as a nickel or dime back at the next level, given his tackling ability and physical presence. His versatility to play multiple roles, combined with his football IQ and ball skills, make him an intriguing player for teams in need of depth in their secondary. If Johnson can add bulk, refine his coverage skills, and continue to prove himself against stronger competition, he has the potential to earn a role as a rotational defensive back or special teams contributor in the NFL. As it stands right now, I would not anticipate him getting drafted, however, I would guess that he will be a UDFA that will make a lot of noise throughout training camp. Expect his hardworking and determined attitude to continue to propel him forward.

Grade: Priority UDFA

Austin Peay defensive back Jesse Johnson III (1) lines up across from Tarleton State wide receiver Cody Jackson on October 26, 2024. (NDD)