It wasn't until the Steelers' fifth selection, but Kevin Colbert finally added a defensive player in the NFL Draft Saturday.
That came with the 140th pick in Texas A&M linebacker Buddy Johnson:
With the 140th pick in the #NFLDraft, we select LB Buddy Johnson. #SteelersDraft pic.twitter.com/3CNlONgdDN
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 1, 2021
Johnson was the leading linebacker for the SEC's top-ranked defense in 2020. He led the Aggies with 85 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles, along with four sacks in a year he was named as a semifinalist for the Butkus Award.
At 6-foot-1, 229 pounds, Johnson is a big, thick linebacker who built his reputation as being a run stuffer who wasn't afraid to charge in and engage blockers at the point of attack, as well as bring runners down close to the line of scrimmage.
"One of the first things I want to see is when you attack the line of scrimmage," linebackers coach Jerry Olsavasky said. "We call that going down hill, and Buddy does that really well. You can tell he's been around football for a long time. He feels comfortable moving with the run and attacking blockers. Blockers are more proficient in the NFL, but that just takes technique. The fact he attacks is very good. You can't teach that."
When asked about Johnson's athleticism, Olsavsky said his pro day numbers showed "explosions" from Johnson. His 4.57 40-yard dash and 128-inch broad jump both ranked fifth among 2021 draft-eligible linebackers, his 38.5-inch vertical jump ranked sixth, and his 4.03 shuttle time ranked second.
But as Olsavsky said, Johnson's willingness to attack the run spoke loudly as well. Playing in the SEC had him face several talented running backs he was tasked to stop, including the Steelers' first-round pick in Najee Harris.
"The SEC is one of the most competitive conferences," Johnson said. "I went against great guys all year. I'm always up for the challenge. Najee Harris is a great back, I like his playing style. I'm just glad to be his teammate now."
