GIANTS UDFAS: GET TO KNOW ALEX JOHNSON, DB, UCLA

The New York Giants drafted safety Tyler Nubin in Round 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft, and he will likely get an extended chance to earn a starting job. They signed safety Alex Johnson, formerly of UCLA, as an undrafted free agent. On a suddenly crowded depth chart, can Johnson earn a roster spot?

The 33rd Team scouting report on Johnson is not an optimistic one:

Alex Johnson projects as a No. 4 safety who fits best in a 2-high scheme. He is undersized with a slight frame and has high-cut hips. He possesses solid straight-line speed and burst but can struggle in mirror-matching routes. He shows good instincts, and he will flash quick reactive footwork. While his plant and drive ability is usually reliable, lateral jab steps can flip his hips and create separation at the top of the route. Johnson is a one-year starter and his ball skills are a little untested, but he showed promise when given a chance. He lacks the physicality and strength to be a major factor against the run currently. His tackling form needs improvement as he lets too many ballcarriers slip away. On 3rd downs, he is versatile, but is best in a deep zone where he can read the QB. He should be a contributing special teamer.

Johnson had five interceptions and three passes defensed for UCLA in 13 games last season. He did not have any interceptions in 16 games over his first three seasons with the Bruins.

The Giants did guarantee Johnson $115,000. That doesn’t mean he will stick with the team on the main roster or practice squad. It does mean they were interested in him enough to make him a nice offer.

2024-05-04T16:10:51Z dg43tfdfdgfd