The Texans think the arrow is pointing up on cornerback Kevin Johnson, their first-round draft pick from 2015.
Johnson played almost 900 snaps in his rookie season, registering a pick, nine passes defensed and 47 tackles. Next season he hopes to do even more with health issues behind him. Johnson underwent surgeries on both his wrist and foot this offseason.
"No doubt, I'm feeling great," Johnson told The Houston Chronicle. "I'm working with the Texans staff and I'm getting back healthy. I'm getting back faster than I thought I was. So, I'm excited about getting ready for next season."
Johnson broke his wrist in the postseason but had foot issues for nearly half his rookie year.
Because Johnson is a defensive player in Houston, his accomplishments largely flew under the radar. After all, his name is not J.J. Watt. In games against the Titans, Jaguars and Saints, Johnson was especially strong, and became a fixture in the starting lineup down the stretch. With Johnathan Joseph entering the late-prime years of his career and Kareem Jackson working to live up to his four-year, $34 million deal, Johnson's development is crucial to keep the focus on a pressure-oriented defense.
"No question, I want to come back and have a big year next year," Johnson said. "I want to do everything better. My whole goal and mindset is doing everything I can to be a better player, physically and mentally, and just coming in and first and foremost getting healthy and handle my business."
