The Wisconsin Badgers were pleasantly surprised with the performances from a young defensive lineman a season ago, and continue to be impressed.
Dillan Johnson, a former four-star recruit who flipped his commitment from Northwestern, was a bright spot on defense a season ago for the Badgers. Johnson found his way onto the field after battling each day during practice and opening the eyes of the staff. Wisconsin expected Johnson to be ready to play, but did not expect the recruit to be quite as skilled and prepared for collegiate football as he had been.
Johnson has been on a mission to prove that last season was no fluke, and the work has truly been put in behind the scenes. The defensive lineman has been one of the most impressive players on the practice field as the season continues to inch closer. Johnson has plenty of competition at the position, but his combination of power and athleticism has led to the staff keeping a close eye.
Wisconsin Badgers Defensive Lineman Dillan Johnson Putting Development on Display During Impressive Camp
There have been many stock-risers on either side of the football for the Wisconsin Badgers this off-season, but Johnson has quietly been one of the more impressive players. The 6-foot-2-inch, 293-pound defensive lineman has been battling for playing time in a position room the desperately needs to produce during the upcoming season.
Johnson managed to contribute early last season due to combination of injuries along the line and impressive practices out of the athlete. Wisconsin also had one of the least productive defensive line units in the Big Ten Conference a season ago and gave chances to multiple players in an effort to find some success. Johnson was able to play a season ago, but that does not guarantee any playing time this season and the defender has understood that.
Thus far throughout camp, Johnson has been one of the more consistent players on the field, displaying great athleticism and an improved frame. Johnson came in physically ready to play last season which happened to be a reason why he was able to see the field early. The defender added a bit more size to his upper body for the upcoming season while shedding some fat off of his frame.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
While Johnson has displayed great development for the Wisconsin Badgers, making his way to the field during the upcoming season could be difficult. Wisconsin retooled the defensive line room by adding talent such as Charles Perkins, Jay’viar Suggs, and Parker Petersen who all will command a decent amount of snaps. In addition, Wisconsin also has returning players in Ben Barten and Brandon Lane who played a solid amount last season.
Johnson found his way to the field last season, however, and recorded seven tackles for the team in limited action. Despite more talent sitting in the room, Johnson has developed quite a lot himself and should be able to carve out a role for himself on the field.
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