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Dorian Johnson Signs Contract With Arizona Cardinals

By Jeremy Meek

Nov 21, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive linemen Dorian Johnson (53) Brian O'Neill (70) celebrate with fullback George Aston (35) after Aston scored a four yard touchdown against the Louisville Cardinals during the second quarter at Heinz Field. PITT won 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers offensive linemen Dorian Johnson (53) Brian O'Neill (70) celebrate with fullback George Aston (35) after Aston scored a four yard touchdown against the Louisville Cardinals during the second quarter at Heinz Field. PITT won 45-34. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Fourth Round Draft Pick Dorian Johnson has signed his rookie contract with the Arizona Cardinals

Going into the 2017 NFL Draft, most fans of the Arizona Cardinals were aware that the team needed to add to the offensive line. The interior of the line was the main area of focus.

The Cardinals waited until round four to pull the trigger, but might have gotten a steal with Dorian Johnson from Pittsburgh. Now, he’s officially member of the team, having signed a new, four year contract to play in the desert.

The rookie guard will compete for a starting job right away. The Cardinals have several guys working for the right guard spot, so it’s certainly not a given, but Johnson is as talented as any his competition there.

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Johnson’s college tape was impressive, and he should have been selected higher than round four. However, medical concerns, with his liver in particular, scared teams. Ultimately, he fell into round four, where the Cardinals felt the upside was too much to pass on.

At 6’5″ and 300 lbs, Johnson has a terrific combination of size and technique. He moves well, and knows how to use leverage to win against defenders. He’s also a good both in the run game, and against pass rushers. Also in his favor is the experience he comes with, having been a starter for three years while at Pitt.

The Cardinals, by most accounts, had a very good draft. They addressed positions of need, except at quarterback, and got good value with their picks. Offensive linemen don’t always get as much recognition, particularly as draft picks, but Johnson has the potential to be a long-time starter in the NFL. Getting that with a fourth round pick would be amazing.

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