The Kent State Golden Flashes will hope to vault their NFL presence with their incoming 2022 NFL Draft class. Longtime quarterback Dustin Crum looks to stick with an NFL team after showcasing his talent at this season’s East-West Shrine Bowl. Crum, however, isn’t the only Kent State player who is likely on NFL Draft boards.
Nykeim Johnson adds a potential versatile option as a receiver and returner at the NFL level. Together, these two are the featured athletes on the Pro Football Network scouting report circuit through the MAC. Here are the full reports on Kent State ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Kent State 2022 NFL Draft Scouting Reports
Crum has secured an invite to the NFL Combine after showcasing his talent at the Shrine Bowl in Las Vegas.
At the helm of Kent State for the past three seasons, Crum threw for a career 55 touchdown passes. He added 7,449 passing yards including a career-high 3,238 in his final season in 2021.
Showcasing his dual-threat ability, Crum added 24 rushing touchdowns and 2,071 rushing yards in his career. He had multiple seasons with over 700 rushing yards. He has great NFL size but may have to work on his accuracy and quickening his delivery at the NFL level.
Johnson, on the other hand, had a great season after transferring to Kent State following four years at Syracuse. He ripped off a career-high 55 receptions for 626 yards with 3 touchdowns while adding 412 all-purpose return yards. At 5’8″, Johnson may be just what an NFL team looks for as a WR5/6 with return abilities.
QB Dustin Crum
Positives: Super-productive college quarterback who is patient, displays outstanding field vision, and is almost clairvoyant as to where his receivers will be on the field. Protects the football, naturally looks off the safety, and effectively reads defenses. Displays a sense of timing on throws, remains poised as the pocket collapses around him, and spreads the ball around to all his targets.
Keeps his eyes downfield, buys as much time as necessary, and changes his point of release in order to get the throw away. Immediately locates open wideouts, displays the ability to deliver strikes downfield, and shows a lot of toughness carrying the ball. Does a great job running the offense.
Negatives: Benefited from several receiver screens that padded his stats. Inability to drive deep passes results in a loss of opportunities and big plays. Must put extra effort to get his passes downfield with speed. Passes tend to sail on him when he tries to drive the ball. Doesn’t consistently pick up yardage with his legs. Won’t consistently pick up yardage with his legs.
Analysis: Crum ran a high-powered offense the past two seasons and threw for a lot of yards and touchdowns, but he benefited from the system he played in. He’s a game manager at the next level who can find his way onto a roster as a third signal-caller.
WR Nykeim Johnson
Positives: Small, quick receiver who gets the most from his ability. Incredibly quick-footed, extends his hands, and snatches the ball out of the air. Adjusts to errant throws, plays bigger than his listed size, and possesses strong hands. Immediately turns it upfield after the catch. Gives effort blocking downfield.
Negatives: More quick than fast and lacks a deep burst. Small and gets outmatched.
Analysis: Johnson is a reliable pass catcher who is best in the slot. His greatest contribution at the next level will be as a return specialist, an area where he produced in college.