Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Patrick Johnson was the surprise player for the team in the preseason this year. But was he the Raiders’ best player when taking everything into account?
Pro Football Focus assessed Johnson as being the highest-graded player for the Raiders throughout the entire preseason, with a player grade of 90.2.
“Johnson has impressed in each of the past three preseasons and flashed again this year. He recorded seven tackles resulting in a defensive stop, and generated five pressures from 40 pass-rushing snaps while also forcing a fumble.”
Johnson made a strong case to earn a prominent role in the Raiders’ defense after performing well beyond expectations for the team this preseason. He shined with his ability to pressure the quarterback
and pick up huge tackles on special teams, which boosted his value on the team.
Johnson entered training camp competing for a roster spot, but his standout performance in the preseason earned him rave remarks from Raiders general manager John Spytek, secured his place on the Raiders’ 53-man roster, and set him up to contribute meaningfully behind Maxx Crosby and Kwity Paye next season. Keyron Crawford’s injury furthers his chances to earn him more opportunities and a bigger role in Las Vegas than originally anticipated once the season begins.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Which Raiders player received the highest PFF grade this preseason?
