2021 National Scouting Combine Featured Athlete Antonio Johnson, LB from North Carolina Wesleyan College

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Antonio Johnson | North Carolina Wesleyan College | LB

Instagram: Antonio__Johnson31


Q: Tell us about your college (or pro) career and what the recruiting/scouting process was like. Why did you choose (North Carolina Wesleyan College)?

A: I chose to attend North Carolina Wesleyan because they were dedicated to their program and to me as an individual. The coaches and staff were interested in my success as a person on and off the field, and I felt this was and still is one of the best decisions I could have made.

Q: What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far?

A: So far, leading the nation in solo tackles, scoring five defensive touchdowns, becoming an All-American, winning defensive player of the year back-to-back, and having one of the best conference play records for my conference.

 

Q: What do you consider to be one of the more important things you learned from the coaching staff while playing at (North Carolina Wesleyan)?

A: The coaching staff really pushed film study and taught me how important it is. I also learned how important it is to lead a team and how having strong leadership affects the team on the field.

Q: How was your career impacted due to the 2020 pandemic and what have you learned from the adversity?

A: Due to the pandemic my pro days were cancelled and my unit got mobilized to Texas. The pandemic taught me to keep being optimistic, stay determined, and to never lose focus on your goals.

 

Q: What was your major and what are your plans if football doesn’t work out?

A: I majored in business with a minor in logistics. If football doesn’t work out, I plan on getting into real estate and starting my own business.

My biggest strength is my speed, ability to cover the field side line to side line, and my play making ability. I want the opportunity to prove to scouts why I would be a great asset to their team and there is no better time to prove that other than at the combine.

Q: What would your current/past teammates say about you and your qualities?

A: My teammates would talk about my leadership, competitiveness, how hard working I am and how I am a team player.

 

Q: What has been one of the most memorable plays of your career at any level?

A: My most memorable plays from NC Wesleyan would be my strip sack 65-yard touchdown vs Boulevard. Also, when I ripped the ball away from Averett University’s running back, I broke multiple tackles and ended the run with a truck stick and a 75-yard touchdown.  

 

Q: What has been your biggest challenge and how do you manage it?

A: Getting the attention of scouts, losing my pro-days due to COVID-19, and getting mobilized to Texas while still trying to train for the combine. I manage this by working out and running nightly after fourteen-hour shifts, and going to the gym on my off days.

 

Q: If you could compare yourself to a pro athlete, who would that be and why?

A: Darius Leonard, because we possess similar athletic ability and instinct. We have the ability to make game changing plays and great leadership qualities.

 

Q: What is your biggest strength that you bring to a professional team and why should pro scouts consider you?

A: My biggest strength is my speed, ability to cover the field side line to side line, and my play making ability. I want the opportunity to prove to scouts why I would be a great asset to their team and there is no better time to prove that other than at the combine.

 

Q: Are you involved in mentoring, a charity or do you “give back” or ”pay it forward” in your community?

A: I volunteer at a soup kitchen called, Hope Mission and I help coach and mentor players at East Carteret High School in North Carolina.

 

Q: How are you preparing for the 2021 National Scouting Combine and what are your goals?

A: I am preparing by doing technique and foot work, film and feedback, strength training, running sprints and long distance. My goals are to get the attention of scouts and stand out from other players.

Q: What would be your ultimate achievement?

A: To be successful in anything I do.

 

 

 

Q: What do you enjoy doing when not playing football?

A: Working out, reading, mentoring, and investing in stocks.

 

 

Q: If you could make a positive impact on all of society what would it be and why?

A:  I would like to start a mentor program for kids who don’t have as many resources and opportunities as others do. That way I can guide them in attaining their goals and helping them figure out their paths.

 

 

Q: Who is or has been the most influential person in your life?

A: The most influential people in my life are my family and teammates.

 

Q: What is something unique about you that people would find interesting?

A: I’m in the Army Reserve and recently just got mobilized to Texas.

 

 

Q: What is your dream job?

A: NFL pro player or chief executive of a business.

2024 National Scouting Combine

February 18-22 held at Grand Park Events Center in Westifled, IN. Accepting draft eligible nominations now!
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