Arizona Cardinals: 5 2015 NFL Draft Sleepers to Target

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David Johnson, RB, Northern Iowa

Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad running back David Johnson of Northern Iowa (7) carries the ball against the North squad in the first quarter of the Senior Bowl at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

David Johnson is another middle round running back prospect for the Cardinals to consider. Similarly to Langford, Johnson has shown the ability to carry a large load in college.

He may not be a pure power runner like his 6-foot-1, 224 pound frame may suggest, but Johnson is a physical back who rarely goes down on first contact.

Johnson shows great athleticism and good speed with a very thick and muscular build. He was incredibly productive at Northern Iowa, walking away with almost all of the schools rushing records, and even some receiving records.

His ability to naturally catch the ball out of the backfield separates him from his peers. Johnson has great hands, body control and the route running awareness to find the open space on the field.

While Johnson is a great receiver out of the backfield, he does show the skills to be a dangerous runner as well. His balance and athleticism makes him look natural in and out of cuts, and Johnson also shows very good ball carrier vision.

Johnson is not going to shake many defenders with his elusiveness, but he knows how to find the right hole, and his power allows him to consistently pick up extra yardage.

There is obviously a concern with Johnson coming from a smaller school, and not playing much against high level competition. That being said, this past season against Iowa, Johnson was brilliant in the passing game, totaling five receptions for 203 receiving yards. He showed the ability to constantly beat Big Ten linebackers in that game.

Johnson was also one of the premier performers at Senior Bowl week. He was a dazzling performer in the week of practice, and rushed for 43 yards on ten carries with a touchdown in the game. Johnson’s performance in the Senior Bowl showed that he can perform against top level competition.

The Cardinals need help at the running back position, and Johnson is a guy who they can get in the second or third round with huge upside.

Next: 2015 NFL Draft: 5 First-Round Options for Cardinals

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