Paris Johnson NFL Draft: Top 3 teams that should target Ohio State's star OT
The 2023 NFL Draft is expected to be dominated by highly regarded quarterbacks Bryce Young and CJ Stroud, but as they say in football, a quarterback cannot thrive without a sturdy to protect him. One name that stands out among the OL prospects is Ohio State's Paris Johnson.
At 6'6" and 315 lbs, Johnson is an impressively sized specimen who also happens to have great athleticism. Many teams will covet him for his blocking abilities, but these are the best destinations for him.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers are currently in a transitional phase, having just completed their first season without Ben Roethlisberger. Kenny Pickett and Mitch Trubisky will be in for a heated competition for the starting spot, but whoever wins that battle needs more protection. Right now, the Steelers have exactly three offensive tackles. On the flip side, they have six guards, so it is plausible that they trade or waive two of them to bolster the tackle ranks with Johnson.
Miami Dolphins
DJ Fluker has already been mentioned as a potential bargain acquisition for the Dolphins at tackle; but Johnson possesses more upside. However, that does not mean one or the other should join.
Tua Tagovailoa has been recovering from a concussion he sustained on a sack last season, and Miami could use more depth on the offensive line. If both Fluker and Johnson are added to the roster, Tagovailoa will be able to breathe easy knowing that these two behemoths can keep defenses at bay.
Chicago Bears
Justin Fields is shaping up to be the Bears' next franchise quarterback, but if Chicago is to give him his first-ever postseason appearance, they need to build an offensive powerhouse around him.
Bears coach Matt Eberflus was seen observing Johnson and fellow OSU Cowboy Jaxon Smith-Njigba in a school-sponsored workout. While Smith-Njigba would make a great offensive weapon, he and Fields cannot be freed up without protection beforehand, and that is what Johnson brings to the table. His size and athleticism should provide the Bears with the necessary blocking to make major plays.