Denver Broncos: Alexander Johnson is a budding superstar in year two
Growth is happening with this second-year Denver Broncos player.
When Alexander Johnson came into the NFL, he was an unknown commodity due to his undrafted free agent status. However, Johnson oozes with potential that will make teams question why they never drafted him.
Johnson’s presence in the Broncos defense was felt in 2019 to the point he has an argument to be the defensive MVP last year. Every player certainly goes through growth and change. For Johnson, he is in a better place than he was in year one.
Do not take it from me. Take it from the words of defensive coordinator Ed Donatell.
"“He’s sure in a better place because we didn’t know much about him. He was a depth player kind of fighting his way onto the roster at this point last year. He made the most of his opportunity. He got in there and played. We found a role for him and a way to feature his style. He kind of brings that roughneck element to our defense. We really like where he is. I don’t know how to explain it, but he’s way ahead of where he was because he’s got a major role on this team right now.”"
The Broncos were struggling early in run defense during the 2019 season. After the Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars had their game, head coach Vic Fangio made the decision to insert Mike Purcell and Johnson into the starting lineup.
Ever since that move, the Broncos skyrocketed to consistent status in run defense. Johnson became a huge part of that success. As a stout run defender, Johnson proved to use his high intellect and instincts to be in the right spot at right time.
With his instincts, Johnson has enough capable speed to seal the edge and keep containment. Johnson proved excellent along with Todd Davis in the run game.
Where the defense saw great improvement came from the passing defense with Johnson. The quick play recognition for Johnson was on display on numerous occasions. If it was a short play to the running back Johnson would show up right there in front of the back.
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This caused the player to do his best avoiding Denver’s new linebacker. Johnson proved more often than not to be up for any challenge. This of course is a hallmark of any undrafted player. In every challenge that gets thrown their way, they have to respond positively to impress the coaching staff. Based on Donatell’s comments above, Johnson has exceeded that and is in a better place now than his first season.
A quarterback’s best development happens from year one to year two. However, you can make that same argument for every player on the team. Johnson proved to be a stalwart on defense.
Factoring in his play came to his persona off the field. Johnson is a true treasure and one that will be beloved by the fan base. He embraces a dinosaur mentality on the field with his play.
In particular, the velociraptor is Johnson’s favorite. The stance after nearly every successful play is him doing a dinosaur pose. It is a swagger and confidence that Johnson plays with on the field.
In all phases, Johnson has the makings to be a star on the Broncos defense for years to come and we are just entering year two.