
A.J. Johnson is a proven SEC-caliber LB — physical, instinctive, and disruptive
A.J. Johnson, the former Tennessee Volunteers linebacker, built his reputation as a stout, downhill defender with NFL-level tackling production and playmaking juice; in the 2021 season he posted an 81.0 PFF grade before a torn pec ended his year, and earlier reports noted he didn’t miss a tackle on 34 attempts. He fits a team that wants toughness, gap discipline, and a linebacker who brings edge and reliability, though his availability has been the main question mark rather than his mentality or ability.