What Commanders Fans Should Know About Johnny Newton

Photo byCharles Rex Arbogast/AP Photo

With the 36th overall pick in the NFL Draft, the Washington Commanders draft Johnny Newton — defensive tackle out of Illinois. Newton is an explosive player in the middle of the defense who has the potential to make a lot of noise on his new defense. Let's take a look at what Jer'Zhan Newton brings to the Commanders.

Johnny Newton NFL Draft Profile 2024

Johnny Newton
Position: DT
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 304 lbs
Age: 21
College: Illinois Fighting Illini

Jer'Zhan Newton Stats 2023

• Games: 12
• Tackles: 52
• TFL: 8.5
• Sacks: 7.5

Johnny Newton Highlights

Highlights from YouTube here.

Jer'Zhan Newton Scouting Report

Strengths

Johnny Newton is disruptive on the interior. He's strong and explosive, helping to make up for his lack of length. His handwork is among the best in the draft, and his footwork is terrific. Combine these things with a motor that is unmatched, and it makes sense why teams are interested in adding him early in the draft.

Weaknesses

He got away with a lack of size and length in college, but it will be much tougher against NFL linemen. Newton was so much more athletic than most of his matchups in college that he was able to simply shoot a gap and make plays. In the NFL, this strategy will lead to him getting exposed.

What to Expect From Johnny Newton in 2024

Given where he was drafted, obviously, Johnny Newton will be a Day 1 starter for the Washington Commanders. He will be a disruptor for his new team and he obviously has the potential to become a solid pass rusher for the interior position. However, NFL linemen are bigger, faster and stronger, so Newton's lack of length will be exposed at times, especially in the running game. If he can avoid giving up ground, he can become a solid all-around player, but we could see him subbed out in obvious running situations at times.