Comcast Player Profiles: Mike Johnson Edition

As announced previously in this space, Comcast has generously agreed to support the best NFL community around -- us!  As part of that effort, between now and the end of the 2010 NFL season Comcast will be sponsoring a variety of special editorial and interactive features on our site.

When Comcast sponsors a post, you know it's 100% better. Why? I dunno. They didn't include that in the promotional materials.

Next up on our grand tour of 2010 Atlanta Falcons draft picks is Alabama offensive lineman Mike Johnson, who projects as a guard and perhaps part-time tackle at the NFL level. Sure, he has one of the most non-descript names of all time....but are you going to tell him that to his face? Yikes.

After the jump, find out why Johnson projects to be a fierce lineman.

Name: Mike Johnson

College: Alabama

Nickname: Alabama Slammer

2010 Role: Backup guard

Reminds Us Faintly Of: Todd Weiner, at a slightly different position

Why He's Good: Like fellow pick Joe Hawley, has the versatility to play multiple positions along the offensive line. Powerful blocker who takes good angles and still has room on his frame to grow. Praised often for his intelligence and eagerness to learn. Driven player who will do what it takes to shove aside those in his way, even if they just so happen to be occupying a higher spot on the depth chart than him. Fantastic run blocker.

Why He's Not: Has issues with footwork that will need to be rectified. While a big, strong guy, doesn't always generate the push needed to keep back the giant defensive linemen at this level.

Notable Quotable:: "They have a good offensive line in Atlanta. They have some quality coaches. It’s definitely a good veteran group and they are obviously some good quality guys. I’m just going to come in, try to fit in with them. . .I’m just trying to vie for a spot on that offensive line."

Bottom Line: Johnson's got all the tools to succeed at this level, and while his footwork is a concern, it's coachable and I'm confident he'll work through it. You may well be looking at the long-term starter at one of our guard spots, beginning in 2011. 

Comcast is a proud supporter of The Falcoholic.  You’ll get your Atlanta Falcons games as a part of over 120 NFL games Comcast provides in HD, as well as On Demand game recaps from every NFL game every week, faster Internet speeds, and stunning HD.  With Comcast and NFL RedZone, you get every touchdown from every game every Sunday afternoon!  Call 1-800-COMCAST or visit http://www.comcast.com.