Syracuse defensive back Isaiah Johnson is versatile enough to play both cornerback and safety. A productive defender over the previous two campaigns, Johnson totaled 115 tackles, nine passes defensed, and two interceptions across that time frame. Johnson made a successful transfer to Dartmouth to Syracuse, proving he could play at the Power Five level.
Johnson recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his decision to enter the portal, his production over the previous two seasons, which teams are showing interest in his services, and more.
JM: Now that you've had time to reflect, how do you look back on the decision to transfer from Dartmouth to Syracuse?
Isaiah Johnson: I really feel like that was the best decision for me. I had some different goals in mind and I felt like I could achieve them at Syracuse. Syracuse ended up being the place where I met all of those goals.
I graduated with my Masters Degree in political science. I furthered my academic interests at Syracuse. I also developed as a football player against better competition than I was used to seeing at Dartmouth. I proved I belonged at the Power Five level.
I was around a bunch of guys that were very intuitive when it comes to football. We enjoyed going to practice and putting in that work together. I built some relationships that will last me a lifetime.
It was a great experience overall. I’m glad my decision to enter the portal brought me to Syracuse.
JM: You compiled two great seasons at Syracuse, totaling 115 tackles, nine pass breakups and two interceptions. Did you feel like it was big for you to put up those numbers going from the FCS to the ACC conference?
Isaiah Johnson: Yeah, I definitely feel that way. It was one of those things where going from the FCS to a Power Five school where everybody was going to question whether I could really compete at that level.
I had to maintain that same level of production I had at Dartmouth. I’m very proud of the numbers I put up at Syracuse. It showed that I could compete at any level. That was very important for me. That was one of my goals when I transferred to Syracuse.
JM: You did just that. You showcased tremendous lower-body explosion at the NFL Combine by leaping a 38.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-9 broad. The 1.55 10-yard split showed a great break out of your stance. Were you satisfied with your overall performance?
Isaiah Johnson: I was definitely satisfied with my overall performance. Obviously, I was hoping to run a better 40 time, but we don’t play football in a straight line at the end of the day. In terms of the drills that I feel like really translate over, especially when it came to the position drills, I thought I handled myself appropriately.
I did exactly what I needed to do out there. I showcased that I’m a football player first and foremost. Any team would be right to take a chance on me.
JM: You've played some safety and some corner throughout your career. At 6-3, 205 pounds, do NFL teams view you as a safety?
Isaiah Johnson: There’s definitely been a little chatter about me potentially making the switch to safety. I personally see myself as a cornerback, but like you noted, I’ve played some safety as well. I’ve been versatile.
I’m just a football player at the end of the day. It’s a topic that’s been brought up throughout my team meetings. I’m telling teams the same thing I’m telling you right now. I’ll play wherever they need me to play. I’m willing to step into that role.
I definitely feel like I can make a successful transition to safety. I can learn the position while performing at a high level. My prior experience with the position would help me acclimate.
JM: You’re versatile that way. Do you have any upcoming Top 30 visits or virtual meetings via Zoom?
Isaiah Johnson: I’ve spoken with a bunch of teams since the NFL Combine. I met with a few more teams at my Pro Day as well. We’re scheduling some visits as we speak. I met with the Cardinals on Zoom. I met with the Titans, Steelers and Lions at Pro Day. I spoke with the Bills and Cowboys as well.
JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. We've appreciated your time today. What kind of impact is Isaiah Johnson going to make at the next level?
Isaiah Johnson: I’m extremely passionate. I grew up watching old-school football in the early 2000s. I’m more of a throwback player. I don’t focus on stats. I put the work in because I want to help the team win.