Matt Waldman’s RSP NFL Lens examines moments from Lions running back Kerryon Johnson’s preseason debut. 

One of my favorite backs in this draft class, Kerryon Johnson has looked the part as a runner and receiver. How much playing time he earns during the season will come down to the next two weeks of camp and whether the Lions can settle and work around Johnson’s weakness as a pass protector.

The Chiefs did this with Kareem Hunt last year and limited him to specific assignments as a blocker — opting to use him more as a receiver on passing downs. If Johnson can improve his attack with his stand-up game and maintain consistency at diagnosing his assignments, he could become an every-down option without any adjustments.

Overall, I was impressed with Johnson as much as I was when I studied him at Auburn. I had him in the same general tier as the best runners in this rich class and he’s off to a good start.

Lions RB Kerryon Johnson's Preseason Debut

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