Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Has shown inconsistency in hand technique and coordination, affecting his security at the catch point and leading to focus drops.
• Despite his speed, lacks elite breakaway capability in open fields, which could limit his effectiveness against faster defensive backs.
• Route running, while improved, still displays signs of rigidity, particularly in hip tightness, affecting his ability to make sharp breaks.
• Struggles with route precision and timing, needing refinement in footwork to effectively beat coverage leverage.
• Despite his size, exhibits modest hip stiffness, necessitating additional steps for sharp route cuts, which could telegraph his intentions.

Scouting Report: Summary

Cornelius Johnson's draft stock is a mixed bag, reflective of his on-field performances at Michigan. He's got the prototypical WR frame - tall, solid build, with the wingspan to snag balls out of the air. His vertical game is his bread and butter; he can go over the top of DBs and has shown flashes of being a red zone threat with his ability to high-point the football. Despite this, Johnson's route tree appears limited with a tendency for rounded breaks and a lack of sharpness in his cuts, which could telegraph his routes to savvy cornerbacks at the next level.

From a scouting lens, Johnson's upside is palpable. His long strides eat up cushion quickly, putting immediate pressure on defensive backfields. His contested catch capability and downfield threat make him a matchup problem, particularly in single coverage situations. However, his transition to the NFL demands an uptick in route sophistication and a focus on catching mechanics to mitigate drops - areas where coaching and scheme fit will be paramount. His blocking prowess and special teams contributions highlight a willingness to contribute in multiple phases, adding to his overall value.

Projecting into the NFL, Johnson's developmental trajectory will hinge on refining the nuances of his position - honing in on route precision, leveraging his frame more effectively against press coverage, and enhancing his catch consistency. His physical tools present a solid foundation, but the onus will be on NFL coaching staffs to unlock his full potential. As a late-round pick with developmental upside, Johnson could carve out a role as a situational deep threat and special teams contributor, with the ceiling to evolve into a more prominent role given the right developmental environment.