The Buffalo Bills announced that Taron Johnson signed his rookie contract on Friday morning, becoming the fifth of their eight draftees to make it official. Johnson’s signing came just hours before participating in his first practice at rookie minicamp. A cornerback out of Weber State, Johnson was selected by Buffalo in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. This leaves Josh Allen, Tremaine Edmunds, and Harrison Phillips at the only Bills not to ink their rookie deals.
Per the announcement, Johnson will begin his NFL career as a slot corner where he will compete with Philip Gaines for the starting role. Head coach Sean McDermott made sure to point out that Johnson offers options as well.
“That’s where he played, inside. He’s played outside as well. He’s offering that flexibility, that versatility playing inside and outside,” said McDermott
Johnson’s physicality appears to have been an attractive asset for the Bills.
“He’s tough. He tackles which seems like is a lost art for a lot of DBs… corners in particular in this league,” said McDermott. “So, that’s something we look for. Had an opportunity to be around him at the Senior Bowl, and I was impressed.”
Johnson echoed the sentiments of coach McDermott and stated, “I feel like it’s definitely one of my strong suits. I try and play corner more like a safety, if you will. I try and be as aggressive as possible and that’s something that I’m looking forward to doing in the NFL.”
“We’re going to see what happens,” Johnson said. “Wherever they put me I’m ready to excel and master whatever position they put me in.”