Michigan Football: 3 breakout candidates for Wolverines in 2019
By Nick Popio
Cornelius Johnson
The secret of Cornelius Johnson is out and it didn’t last long. Coach Harbaugh has sung the praises of the young freshmen by saying “he is rocketing up the depth chart.” Johnson also garnered rave reviews from fellow wideout Nico Collins, along with Josh Uche chiming in on him too. Not to mention that according to Harbaugh as well, he has already won a role as a gunner on the punt team.
The standout has the tools to be the next great pass catcher in Michigan football history. His size and precise route running jump out on film to me. He’s got deceptively fast speed that can earn him a spot in the return game if Ambry Thomas or Donovan Peoples-Jones falters.
His catch radius and glue-like hands will almost certainly make him a heavy target when he sees the field. At the Army All American game in January, his performance was hopefully just a sign of things to come.
On his podcast this week, Jim Harbaugh identified Daxton Hill, Giles Jackson and Cornelius Johnson as having “seized” the gunner spots (special teams) early in camp.
— Aaron McMann (@AaronMcMann) August 13, 2019
The main problem that Johnson is facing is the depth chart. Three of the nation’s best stand in front of him that most likely could see him redshirt in year one for him. Otherwise, it’s clear to see why Johnson appears to have everything it takes to battle for playing time right away.