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ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. breaks down the quality at the top of the draft.
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Wednesday, April 18

Book on WR Chad Johnson

Here's a rundown of what I've had to say about Oregon State WR CHAD JOHNSON since the beginning of the college-football season.

March 21
After running in the 4.58 range at the combine, Johnson needed to bounce back strong during his individual session. He did just that, running three 40s that were reported to be in the 4.43, 4.41 and 4.39 range. Johnson ran the 40s on an outdoor track. Based on his strong senior season with the Beavers and the fact that he was one of the best players on the field in Mobile during the Senior Bowl practices, the improved 40 time should allow Johnson to regain some of the lost momentum from the combine.

Feb. 28
After impressing so much during the regular season at Oregon State and also at the Senior Bowl practices -- where I thought he was one of the best players on the field -- Johnson failed to post the computer numbers that were expected. He only ran a 4.59 and had just a 32-inch vertical jump. The explosive qualities he displayed with the pads on unfortunately weren't evident during parts of his workout. How much does this affect his draft position? He'll slide down, but how far remains to be seen. There is no question that his individual workout will be of major consequence.

Feb. 7
The more you watched Johnson's progress this past season, you became increasingly enthusiastic about his ability to star in the NFL.

Jan.12
Tremendous physical ability. Most impressive player at Senior Bowl practices. At 6-foot-1½ 200 pounds, he has explosive speed. He's a good route runner and is a very competitive football player.

Jan. 4
Physically gifted 6-foot-1, 200-pounder who in my opinion was the Newcomer of the Year in the Pac-10 after coming over from Santa Monica College.


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