3 safest selections Steelers could make in the 2022 NFL Draft
By Tommy Jaggi
OG Zion Johnson, Boston College
If Kenyon Green doesn’t seem like an attractive pick to you, then chances are Zion Johnson isn’t going to have that appeal you are looking for either. Finding quality help along the interior offensive line usually comes pretty easily for teams, but getting players who could be quality starters for a decade typically requires a team to spend elite draft capital.
Zion Johnson could be that guy that the Steelers are looking for. Johnson was a fifth-year senior for Boston College in 2021 and is almost two years older than Green. However, age doesn’t matter as much for offensive linemen, as quality players can still last a very long time in this league.
Johnson has a prototype build for an NFL guard. Though he’s only 6’2”, he has long arms and a remarkable base. Johnson also has terrific technique and balance to go with great lower-body power. During Senior Bowl week, he was easily my top-graded offensive lineman during one-on-one drills (which is a great predictor for success at the next level).
Like Green, Johnson would be a plug-and-play starter for the Steelers. While he doesn’t have the frame to play tackle, Johnson has Pro Bowl upside at offensive guard and looked natural taking his first-ever snaps at center during Senior Bowl week. He’s one of the biggest high-floor prospects in the NFL Draft this year.