Penn State Football 2018 Player Preview: WR Juwan Johnson

Penn State football will have the services of one of the top wide receivers in the country.

Quarterback Trace McSorley won’t have the luxury of throwing to top receiver DaeSean Hamilton this season, as he’ll now be playing on Sundays with the Denver Broncos. Fortunately, Penn State football has a new top receiver who brings both experience and talent to the position.

Redshirt junior Juwan Johnson took a big step forward last season and will look to make a major impact for the Nittany Lions in 2018.

Johnson has been with the program since he was a part of the 2015 recruiting class. Nicknamed “Megatron Jr.” in high school, Johnson was a four-star recruit according to 247Sports.com. He was the No. 13 wide receiver and the No.3 protect from the state of New Jersey.

As a high school senior, Johnson participated in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

After sitting out in 2015 to develop more at Penn State, Johnson finally saw game action in 2016. With most of his time on special teams, he made just two receptions as a receiver. That was due in large part to the presence of receivers Chris Godwin and Hamlton. However, Johnson totaled 70 yards on his receptions, for an average of 35 yards per catch.

Last season, Johnson reached the potential that he showed in high school by quickly turning into a very reliable offensive weapon. He recorded 54 catches for 701 yards. Although he had just one touchdown, it was a huge one that helped save the Nittany Lions’ season.

Down 19-15, Penn State was down to one last play to avoid an upset at Iowa. Johnson caught a seven-yard touchdown pass with no time left on the clock to propel Penn State to the 21-19 win.

He was an honorable mention All-Big Ten for his efforts throughout the season.

Heading into this season, Johnson will be the clear top receiver for the Nittany Lions. He clearly has ability and can be very difficult for defenses to defend down the field. His six-foot-four frame presents a huge target for his quarterback, particularly in the red zone.

The Penn State offense has some major holes to fill this season with the losses of Hamilton, running back Saquon Barkley, and tight end Mike Gesicki. However, Johnson appears primed to step in and become one of the best players on offense for the Nittany Lions.

If early projections are any clue, Johnson’s name could be thrown around as an early wide receiver pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. If that comes to fruition, then 2018 could be his last season with the Nittany Lions.

Keep an eye on Johnson this year as he helps to lead the Nittany Lions on offense.

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