Sep 7, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Chris Johnson Jr. (24) scores a touchdown against Florida A&M Rattlers during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Name: Chris Johnson Jr.
Position: Running Back
Recruiting Rank: 4-Star Recruit
High School: Dillard High School (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)
College: Miami -> SMU
Captain: No
Measurables
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 184
40 Yard: Unknown
10 Yard: Unknown
Arm Length: Unknown
Hand Size: Unknown
Vertical: Unknown
3 Cone: Unknown
Broad Jump: Unknown
Bench: Unknown
Position Specific
Positives in Pass Game:
- Excellent receiving threat out of the backfield and in space.
- Can flex out wide and create mismatches against linebackers.
- Thrives on screens and short routes where his burst and lateral agility can be showcased.
- Demonstrates good hands and awareness in the passing game.
Negatives in Pass Game:
- Doesn’t consistently create separation on routes.
- Comfortable working in traffic, sometimes too much so, leading to less effort in creating windows.
- Needs development as a route technician to be more than a check-down or gadget option.
Positives in Run Game:
- Outstanding vision with instinctive one-cut style.
- Elite burst and acceleration once he plants and goes.
- Track speed translates to the field, capable of outrunning pursuit angles.
- Dangerous in space, with the agility to make defenders miss and turn small plays into chunk gains.
- Has balance and speed to work the perimeter effectively, especially on fly sweeps.
- Decisive when identifying holes; doesn’t hesitate.
Negatives in Run Game:
- Lean frame raises durability and workload concerns between the tackles.
- Limited power; not a consistent tackle-breaker in short-yardage or goal-line situations.
- Inconsistent in pass protection, relying heavily on cut blocks and poor technique when staying upright.
The Wrap-up
Summary: Johnson Jr. is a speed-based back who thrives in space and excels at creating explosive plays. With track-level acceleration and vision, he fits best in a system that can scheme touches on the perimeter and in the passing game. While his athleticism jumps off the tape, questions remain about his ability to handle a full workload as a traditional three-down back due to size, power, and pass protection limitations.
Injury Concerns: None noted.
Character/Off-Field Concerns: None noted.
Projected Role: Change-of-pace or complementary back with upside as a versatile weapon in space and on passing downs. Could thrive in a spread/RPO-heavy system or as a gadget player early in his career.
Strong Points:
- Elite speed and acceleration
- Explosive playmaker in space
- Versatile weapon in both run and pass game
- Strong vision and instinctive runner
Weak Points:
- Undersized for heavy workload
- Pass protection liability
- Struggles to consistently create separation on routes
- Not a short-yardage or power option
Exposures:
- Bethune-Cookman (2023)
- East Texas A&M (2025)
- Baylor (2025)
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
