Star Receiver Drafted by Chargers Shocks Fans, Signs with Packers in Stunning Move
National championship-winning receiver Cornelius Johnson, drafted in the seventh round by the Los Angeles Chargers, worked out for the Green Bay Packers on Tuesday, per NFL insider Aaron Wilson.
The Packers may have a practice squad spot available after T.J. Luther, a recent signee, was injured during his first practice last week.
Johnson, a high-upside prospect, stands at 6-foot-2 3/4, ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash, and posted a 37.5-inch vertical jump, earning a Relative Athletic Score of 9.46. During the preseason, he recorded three catches for 34 yards, but despite his connection with coach Jim Harbaugh, he didn’t make the Chargers’ active roster or practice squad.
At Michigan, Johnson amassed 138 receptions for 2,038 yards and 14 touchdowns over five seasons. In 2023, he was an honorable mention on the All-Big Ten team, catching 47 passes for 604 yards and one touchdown. He caught nine passes for 64 yards in the Big Ten Championship and added five more catches in the playoffs.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic described Johnson as a “quick-footed athlete” with room to improve his route running. Though Johnson struggles with separation and occasional drops, he excels in contested catches, securing 9-of-11 in such situations, according to Pro Football Focus. Brugler noted that while Johnson doesn’t have elite traits, he possesses the tools to develop into a rotational outside receiver.
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Johnson aimed to improve his blocking and go-ball efficiency during his final season at Michigan, telling The Draft Network he wanted to be more physical at the line and spring running backs with better perimeter blocking.
Once Connecticut’s Gatorade Player of the Year in high school, Johnson was also a standout in chess.
The Packers also worked out former LSU receiver Jaray Jenkins, who decided to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers after spending training camp there.
