NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Michael Johnson, OL, Savannah State

Michael Johnson has been a mauler on the Savannah State Offensive Line. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Michael Johnson
  • Height: 6’5”
  • Weight: 335 lbs
  • Position: OL  
  • College: Savannah State University
  • Twitter: @MJohn22_
  • Instagram: BigMike25432

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
After high school, I spent six months at Fork Union Military Academy in order to get my grades up. I have since obtained my undergraduate in Criminal Justice and my Masters in Business Administration while maintaining a above a 3.0. I mainly stuck to football throughout college, but I did participate in community service projects with our team.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
They would say my dependability and hard work. I’m a player that doesn’t quit and a guy that can be relied on.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I do see myself as a leader on the field. I’ve been a team captain for 2 years and part of the team leadership council. I played RT for 2 years and ended up playing RG in 2019. I can be used in the spread, although I’m most comfortable playing a power scheme where I can pull and smack somebody.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
My freshman year, I was able to play against Darius Leonard who’s now doing great things with the Colts. He was a beast that could really move.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
KJ Singleton simply because helis a hard worker. He’s one of the leaders on our defensive line and also a great team player.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
There were very few people that believed in me back in high school. Being from Roanoke, VA, no one expected me to play college ball, let alone start and obtain 2 degrees. It was tough at first because I had to get my grades up at Fork Union. But after that, I’ve been good to go. I can say that I have several pro teams looking at me, and I’m ready for the next chapter in my life.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
It’s always been about football for me. I was a thrower on the track team in high school, but that was more so to stay in shape for football.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m definitely proud that I was able to get my Undergrad and Masters. I made my education a top priority and I was able to stick with it while playing college football. My biggest achievements on the football field are being a 3 year starter and a 2 year team captain. I’m honored that my teammates acknowledge me as one of the leaders on the team.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
In 2019, our game against Fort Valley State was special. I remember pancaking a lot of players in that game. Their coach would get mad at me for driving them to the sideline. At the beginning of the game, our defense was able to intercept the ball and get us close to the endzone for the score. We came in and I remember driving the defender to the sideline. I had to rush back on the field because we had scored a touchdown.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’ve been a Ravens fan since they had Joe Flacco. Right now, Lamar Jackson is my favorite player. He’s just electric. Marshal Yanda is the kind of player that I try to be like. He had an excellent 13-year career going to multiple Pro Bowls. What’s amazing about him is that he only gave away a few sacks in his entire career.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
One of my favorite artists is Kevin Gates. I try to listen to his song “Great Example” before every game to get my hype

What is your favorite comfort food?
Cici’s Pizza is my comfort food. I’ve been going there ever since I was a kid. Where else can you go to have all you can eat pizza for $6.99?

There is a place called Sorry Charlie’s Oyster Bar in downtown Savannah. That place is really also good.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
The Star Wars Saga is my favorite movie. My favorite TV Show is the Big Bang Theory. Sheldon cracks me up.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time, I help out at GRRR which is Georgia Rescue Rehabilitation and Relocation. I help take care of the dogs which can be anything from feeding, walking and grooming to placing them in a good home.

Who or what motivates you the most?
My Mother. She’s been there for me through the good and the bad and the main reason I’ve gotten this far. She’s my #1 fan and supporter and sacrificed a lot for me.

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