NFL Draft 2026 Scouting Report for Arizona S Dalton Johnson

Dalton Johnson broke out as a playmaking safety in his fifth year, with four interceptions and seven pass breakups. His explosiveness, football IQ, and intermediate field coverage pop on tape.

A former 3-star recruit, Johnson plays with the effort, tenacity, and work ethic that NFL coaching staffs need on their rosters and brings a ton of special teams experience.

Dan has covered the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL Draft since 2019 while contributing for RGR Football. Most recently, he spent the 2025 draft cycle at The Draft Network and is entering his first season in our scouting department.

Where He Wins

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— Johnson matches route combinations with the quarterback's eyes well, and his natural instincts keep him around the football.

— Showcases athletic ability and change of direction skills to give nickel flexibility.

— Projects best as a top-down playmaker (two-high or robber) to use his downhill trigger and willingness to hit to his advantage.

Areas of Improvement

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— Johnson's tackling angles and wrap-up technique bring a tendency for missed tackles.

— Lacks the recovery speed to close the gap, turning and running downfield.

— Gets swallowed up by blocks playing closer to the line of scrimmage.

— Covering bigger-bodied receivers and tight ends will be a struggle for him with his frame.

Grade, Rank and Pro Comparison

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GRADE: 6.1 (Developmental Prospect - 5th Round)

COMPARABLE GRADE: S Tysheem Johnson, Oregon (6.1 in 2025), S Jaylen Key, Alabama (6.2 in 2024), S Jordan Howden, Minnesota (6.1 in 2023)

OVERALL RANK: 213

POSITION RANK: S20

PRO COMPARISON: Antoine Bethea

Measurables and Testing Data

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Height: 5'10 ⅞"
Weight: 192
Hand Size: 9 ⅛"
Arm Length: 30 ⅞"
Wingspan: 74 ¾"

40-yard dash: 4.41
10-yard split: 1.59
Vertical: 36"
Broad: 9'11"
3 cone: N/A
Shuttle: N/A
Bench: N/A