Unlike other Saints fans, I don’t view wide receiver as big a need as it’s set out to be viewed. Obviously it would be nice to sign a verified solid wide receiver two, but the Saints have a young receiver room. We know the names of Tre’Quan Smith who could be bound for a breakout season (click here for that story), Marquez Callaway who with some development can have a huge role in the offense and Deonte Harris who has the big play capability and the ability to play slot and run jet sweeps.
We know those as the front runners for the number two receiver role, which will likely be the case but someone who definitely could emerge as a threat is Juwan Johnson. Johnson stands at 6’4, 230 and can play a specific role in the offense which is a need. That role would be as the security blanket and red zone target.
Without Drew making reads within a second of the snap it will be critical for the new quarterback to have a security blanket and a trustworthy receiver. Obviously Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara are trustworthy and obviously can be checkdown threats, but without Drew their roles will expand more in the offense (click here to see what Alvin’s role could look like).
Johnson could be the guy running the flat or the curl which gets a good solid 5-7 yards. In his college days on tape Johnson would show out when the quarterback needed to release the ball or just had to check it down or if it was a quick play to gain some quick easy yards. If Johnson gets involved more in the offense that role could be perfect especially since a new quarterback will be taking over.
The other role Johnson could develop into is a red zone threat. His size and decent speed could be dangerous in the red zone. A simple flat from the 15 yard line could lead to a touchdown or set up a goal line situation. He’s a big physical player, so throwing over the middle or plays like fades if he develops into this role could not only be deadly, but it would leave Michael Thomas in a win situation as well against coverage. With his size as well it’s important to note he will be used in the running game as a blocker. He can take on some of the bigger guys and maybe not have to focus on the corner so much and maybe the safety or a linebacker to set up the pulling guard.
All this is dependent on the development and usage of Johnson during camp. He has to show that he can play this role and show Sean Payton that he can be utilized in his system.
Written By Kadin Janisch
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