San Diego State's Chris Johnson drawing Chiefs' draft interest

Instinctive cornerback prospect could be a value pick for Kansas City in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:38pm

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Chris Johnson, a cornerback prospect from San Diego State University, has been generating interest from the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Johnson is known for his instinctive play, smooth hips, and controlled footwork, which allow him to stay in phase and read route concepts well in both man and zone coverage. While he struggles somewhat in press coverage, his ball production, tackling ability in run support, and overall technique make him an intriguing option for the Chiefs, who are in need of building depth at the cornerback position.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' secondary has undergone significant changes, and the team will need to invest in multiple starting-caliber cornerbacks in the upcoming draft. Chris Johnson, who has consistently been projected as a second or third-round pick, could provide solid value and depth for the Chiefs if they decide to target him.

The details

Johnson, a 21-year-old prospect, stands at 6-foot-0 and 193 pounds. He was a four-year starter at San Diego State, where he was named the Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2025. Over his college career, he recorded 152 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 6 interceptions (including 2 touchdowns), 5 forced fumbles, and 14 passes defended. While Johnson excels in off-man coverage and has a knack for getting his hands on the ball, he struggles somewhat in press coverage and can be outsized at the catch point against bigger receivers.

  • Johnson was named the Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 2025.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in the coming months.

The players

Chris Johnson

A 21-year-old cornerback prospect from San Diego State University, known for his instinctive play, smooth hips, and controlled footwork.

Dave Merritt

The defensive backs coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, who has a reputation for developing undrafted rookies and day-three selections into high-level starters.

Brett Veach

The general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, who has had success in the past with throwing numbers at the secondary position and finding valuable contributors.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will continue to evaluate Chris Johnson and other cornerback prospects ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, as they look to rebuild their secondary and find players who can contribute immediately.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' need for cornerback depth and their history of finding value in the draft make Chris Johnson an intriguing prospect to watch. While he may not be an ideal scheme fit, his overall talent and potential could make him a valuable addition to the team's defensive backfield.