Broncos Camp 2015: Steven Johnson profile
By Tylor Walden
Sep 7, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Steven Johnson (53) before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Steven Johnson looks to build off of his success last year when he took over for various injuries to linebackers Danny Trevathan and Nate Irving. He found success as the inside linebacker, recording 32 total tackles and half of a sack. Now he looks to increase his role with the Denver Broncos in 2015.
Continuing the Broncos Training Camp profile series, we take a look at Steven Johnson. The inside linebacker from Kansas University is another undrafted free agent. After going through all seven rounds of the 2012 NFL Draft, Steven Johnson did not get selected by any of the 32 teams. However, on May 3rd, 2012, the Denver Broncos brought him aboard.
He made the team’s final roster along with other undrafted free agents Aaron Brewer and Duke Ihenacho in 2012. During his first year with the Broncos, he lead all rookies in special teams tackles. Special teams was where Steven Johnson spent most of his time during his first two years as a member of the Broncos.
During last season, Steven Johnson got his golden opportunity as he started seven games on defense. He was known for his tackling. Once he wrapped up the ball carrier, he was not going to stop until he brought the ball carrier down. Now that he has some starting experience under his belt, I foresee Steven Johnson having quite a year in 2015.
I have already stated that Steven Johnson’s tackling is perhaps one of the main areas of a linebacker that sets him apart from the rest of the players. However, according to Sayre, the Denver Broncos have a good set of tacklers. Steven Johnson also has a knack for making big plays on special teams, as during the 2013 season, he recorded a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.
I foresee Steven Johnson on the final roster once the final cuts are made. His special teams abilities makes him irreplaceable and his sure-tackling make him a solid choice as a defensive player, especially as a “Mike” linebacker for the Broncos. He could see playing time if Danny Treveathan and/or Brandon Marshall are not quite ready for the start of the season. But rest assured that Steven Johnson will be a solid player for the Denver Broncos, if not a key one, for the 2015 season.