Feb. 2, 2026, 6:30 a.m. CT<\/p>\n
One of the hidden gems of the 2023 NFL Draft has quietly become one of the Jacksonville Jaguars\u2019 most reliable defenders. Former Texas A&M<\/a> safety Antonio Johnson, selected in the fifth round, has steadily elevated his game each season and is now coming off a true breakout campaign.<\/p>\n Johnson\u2019s career in College Station had its highs and lows, but the physical tools were always obvious. At 6\u2011foot\u20112 with NFL range and tackling ability, he projected as a developmental player with upside<\/a>\u2014and that projection has paid off. He has increased his starts in each of his three seasons and has appeared in all 17 games in back\u2011to\u2011back years. Even though his raw tackle numbers rose in 2024, his overall defensive metrics improved across the board.<\/p>\n For a safety, the margin for error is razor thin. They\u2019re the last line of defense, responsible for eliminating explosive plays and cleaning up mistakes. Missed tackles and coverage lapses get you benched quickly. Johnson has taken that challenge head\u2011on:<\/p>\n Missed tackle rate: dropped from 10.5% to 4.9%Coverage grade allowed: improved from 73.3 to 60.9<\/p>\n Those strides set the stage for a breakout 2025 season<\/a>. Through nine starts, Johnson recorded 58 tackles, two sacks, and five interceptions, including a pick\u2011six that showcased his instincts and closing speed. He has carved out a meaningful role in Jacksonville\u2019s secondary and is trending toward becoming one of the league\u2019s more complete young safeties.<\/p>\n Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!<\/a><\/p>\n If he continues on this trajectory, Johnson\u2019s future looks bright\u2014and his development stands as another example of Texas A&M<\/a> defenders thriving at the next level.<\/p>\n Contact\/Follow us\u00a0@AggiesWire<\/a>\u00a0on X and like our page on\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes, and opinions. Follow Jarrett Johnson on X:\u00a0@whosnextsports1<\/a>.<\/p>\n