Notes: First name is pronounced "ja-ROD." Father, the late Larry Johnson, played receiver and defensive back for the Aggies (1978-80), and brother, Marquis, is an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Eastern Michigan. Jerrod starred in football (quarterback, receiver, safety), baseball (reportedly had a 90-mph fastball) and basketball (was offered an A&M scholarship as a junior). Redshirted in 2006 when he also played in four games for the Aggies basketball team. Saw limited action in five games in '07, completing 2-of-7 pass attempts (28.6 percent) for 50 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions. Also rushed 13 times for 111 yards (8.5-yard average) and three touchdowns. In '08, started 10-of-12 games in place of the injured Stephen McGee and responded by passing 194-326-2,435-21-10 (59.5) with three rushing TDs. Played wide receiver early in the season. Set eight single-season school passing records in '09 when he started all 13 games and produced 296-497-3,579-30-8 (59.6) passing with 145-506-8 (3.5) rushing. Had arthroscopic surgery on his right (throwing) shoulder after the season. Started the first seven games in '10, but was benched three games after back-to-back four-INT performances vs. FIU and Oklahoma State, finishing with 158-279-1,947-14-9 (56.6). Set school records for passing yardage (8,011) and TDs (67). Team captain. Had a 13-17 career starting record.
Positives: Excellent size. Can sidestep the initial rush and throw with touch. Outstanding work ethic and passion for the game. Terrific intangibles. Studies the game. Team player. Outstanding character - class act. Solid career production.
Negatives: Marginal arm strength for his size. Overgrips the ball and it comes out with a loose rotation, floats and sails high as if it were in slow motion. Has an elongated delivery and telegraphs his passes. Inconsistent throwing mechanics leads to inaccuracy - too often sprays the ball. Lacks pocket poise and passing instincts. Often locks on to his targets and does not feel pressure. Average mobility.
Summary: Streaky performer who was benched late in his senior season after regressing, not showing the same arm strength he did prior to offseason surgery and pressing way too much. Athletic enough to garner some interest as a projected tight end, but brightest future in football might turn out to be as a coach.
NFL projection: Priority free agent.
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