Roschon Johnson

Roschon Johnson 2023 Fantasy Football Rookie Profile 

Overview

Roschon Johnson is a senior running back prospect from the University of Texas. Originally recruited as a four-star dual-threat quarterback, Johnson converted to running back in his freshman season due to injuries at the position. In his first year, he would finish as the Longhorns’ third-leading rusher with 649 yards on 123 carries. He rushed for seven touchdowns and caught 23 passes for 158 yards in his best statistical year at Texas. Johnson served primarily as a backup to Bijan Robinson for the remainder of his Longhorn career.

As an unfortunate consequence of playing behind one of the best running back prospects in a decade, Johnson did not see enough playing time to post eye-popping numbers. However, he was very consistent and finished his collegiate career with 2,190 yards and 23 rushing touchdowns. He maintained a career average of 5.6 Yards Per Carry (YPC).

 Pros

• Excellent size
• Ball security (only one college fumble)
• Capable blocker in pass protection
• Patient runner
• Good size/speed combination
• Special teams contributor

Cons

• Lacks elusiveness
• Takes too many hits
• Limited experience
• Lacks burst

Roschon Johnson Player Comparison

Less-explosive Derrick Henry (RB, Tennessee Titans)

Don’t get this twisted; I am not predicting Johnson will come in and dominate the way Henry does. As big as he is, Johnson is not as big as Henry, nor is he as fast. However, I see similarities in how both men use their bodies to dish out punishment to would-be tacklers. With a full head of steam, either man is a load to bring down. While Johnson is unlikely to produce a 2,000-yard rushing season, he does have the frame to withstand the frequent collisions involved in being an NFL running back.

Johnson figures to play a similar role in the passing game to Henry. Neither is praised as a route runner, but both can contribute out of the backfield. Johnson’s hands may be more in question than Henry’s. Johnson will have a chance to stay on the field on third downs due to his willingness and ability as a pass protector. Johnson stands to establish himself as a bruising downhill runner capable of being physical with defenses and helping wear them down.

Roschon Johnson Fantasy Football Projection

Aside from a few choice landing spots, Johnson will likely be part of a committee in his rookie season. It is hard to picture an organization giving him the keys to the backfield. In redraft fantasy football leagues, I like Johnson as a late-round dart throw who could wind up an injury away from having tangible fantasy value in his debut season.

In dynasty formats, Johnson has the potential to be a steal. His dynasty value varies greatly depending on where you get your information. However, some publications have him outside the top 10 rookie running backs, which is too low. I would happily draft Johnson in the late-second round or early-third round ahead of dynasty rookie drafts of Sean Tucker, Zach Evans or Tank Bigsby (and I love Bigsby). Johnson has a greater chance of being an early contributor in fantasy than these other backs do.

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