Tez Johnson, a dynamic wide receiver from the University of Oregon, is poised to make waves in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 165 pounds, Johnson has established himself as one of the most electric offensive weapons in college football.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Tez Johnson, Oregon
College Career
Johnson’s journey to the NFL draft began at Troy, where he quickly became a standout player. In 2021, he caught 67 passes for 735 yards and four touchdowns, earning third-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors. He followed that up with an impressive 2022 season, recording 56 receptions for 863 yards and four touchdowns.
In 2023, Johnson transferred to Oregon, where he made an immediate impact. He set a single-season school record with 86 receptions, amassing 1,182 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him Coaches All-Pac-12 honorable mention and Associated Press All-Pac-12 second team honors.
Johnson’s 2024 season at Oregon further solidified his draft stock. He recorded 83 receptions for 898 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 10.8 yards per catch. His consistency and big-play ability were evident throughout the season, with at least four receptions in 12 out of 13 games.
Strengths
Route Running: Johnson is a precise route runner with the ability to create separation from defensive backs. His quickness and agility allow him to excel at the top of his routes, making him particularly effective in the slot.
Acceleration and Speed: Johnson possesses elite speed and accelerates quickly to his top speed, giving him a significant advantage over defenders. This makes him a constant threat for big plays after the catch.
Hands and Ball Skills: With coordinated hands and excellent ball-tracking skills, Johnson is a reliable target in the passing game. He demonstrates exceptional body control, allowing him to make difficult catches and excel on back-shoulder throws.
Versatility: Johnson’s skill set makes him valuable in multiple roles. He can be deployed from the slot, in trips formations, and as a return specialist.
Football IQ: Johnson displays good football intelligence and post-snap coverage recognition, particularly evident when running option routes.
Areas for Improvement
Size: At 5’10” and 165 pounds, Johnson’s smaller frame may raise concerns about his ability to withstand physical play at the NFL level.
Perimeter Play: Johnson’s projection to the perimeter is limited, as he may struggle with early contact and aggressive coverages.
NFL Projection
Tez Johnson projects as a starting slot receiver in the NFL with the potential to make an immediate impact. His quickness, route-running ability, and yards-after-catch potential make him an attractive option for teams looking to add explosiveness to their offense.
Johnson’s skill set is particularly well-suited for timing-based offenses that can deliver the ball accurately in tight windows. His ability to create separation on short and intermediate routes, combined with his threat as a deep target, will make him a valuable asset in the passing game.
Additionally, Johnson’s experience as a punt returner (20 returns for 190 yards in 2023) adds to his value as a potential special teams contributor.
Draft Outlook
While early projections place Johnson as a fourth-round value, his performance at the NFL Combine and Oregon’s pro day could significantly impact his draft position. Teams in need of a dynamic slot receiver and return specialist will likely have Johnson high on their draft boards.
Johnson’s combination of production, speed, and playmaking ability make him an intriguing prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. While his size may be a concern for some teams, his on-field performance and potential to contribute immediately in the slot and on special teams could see him selected earlier than currently projected.
As the draft approaches, Tez Johnson remains one of the most exciting wide receiver prospects, with the potential to become an impactful player at the next level.
