Larry Johnson has coached nine first-round NFL draft picks in his distinguished career as a defensive line coach.
Since his arrival at Ohio State from Penn State in 2014, 14 of his players have been drafted, including Nick Bosa and Chase Young as No. 2 overall picks and Joey Bosa a No. 3.
It’s unlikely that any of his current players will go that high in the 2025 draft, but the unit he will coach this season might be the deepest and most talented one he has had in Columbus.
Mar 7, 2024; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Eddrick Houston (96) works with defensive line coach Larry Johnson during spring football practice at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center.
Ends J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer and tackle Tyleik Williams decided to return for their senior season instead of entering the NFL draft. Factor in Ty Hamilton at the other tackle and a group of emerging players including ends Caden Curry and Kenyatta Jackson and tackles Jason Moore and Hero Kanu, and it’s an enviable group.
“I think there’s a chance for us to be really good, but it’s a long way for us to determine that,” Johnson said. “I like where we are. Those (veterans) make us better and also make the young players better.”
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Johnson said the only comparable group was in 2017 when the Buckeyes had Young, Nick Bosa, Sam Hubbard, Tyquan Lewis and Dre’Mont Jones.
“We have more depth (now),” Johnson said.
Johnson is 72 but shows no signs of slowing down or easing toward retirement, even as other programs try to use his age against him in recruiting.
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“Every year it’s asked,” he said, “and I’ve been really honest and truthful about that. I’m not going…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/72-ohio-state-footballs-larry-180659240.html
Author : The Columbus Dispatch
Publish date : 2024-03-26 18:06:59
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