Minnesota left guard Greg Johnson earns praise after season-opening performance

Minnesota offensive lineman Greg Johnson opened the 2026 season with a dominant performance against Eastern Illinois on Thursday. The left guard earned a 93.9 grade from PFF for his work in pass protection and the run game. This showing bolsters expectations that the fourth-year player could be selected in the first round of the upcoming NFL draft. While the game against an FCS opponent was a limited test, national draft analysts have already placed Johnson on early first-round draft boards. Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck has produced few first-round draft selections during his tenure, with wide receiver Rashod Bateman in 2021 serving as the only one since 2006. Johnson faces upcoming schedule challenges against Mississippi State, Washington, and Michigan that will further evaluate his status for both the NFL draft and potential consideration for the Outland Trophy.

• 8:26 PMYahoo Sports — Greg Johnson's first-round hype grows after dominant display in Gophers' opener