NORMAN — Mere months ago, Lane Johnson began fall camp fighting for a starting role on Oklahoma's offensive line.
By the season opener, he had moved into the lineup; and today, Johnson is a widely projected top-15 NFL Draft pick after an impressive performance at last month's Senior Bowl, where he showcased athleticism and speed uncommon for offensive linemen.
Rapid change isn't new, though, to Johnson, a former quarterback, tight end and defensive end who finally found a home at offensive tackle two years ago.
The 6-foot-7, 303-pound offensive tackle was invited Wednesday to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, where he'll be joined Feb. 24-26 by former teammates Landry Jones, Tony Jefferson, Kenny Stills, Stacy McGee and Tom Wort.
Johnson played quarterback at Kilgore College, but switched to tight end, which is where he began his Oklahoma career. He changed again to defensive end, then to offensive tackle before his junior season.
Over that span, he transitioned himself from a tall, lanky quarterback to an imposing, powerful offensive tackle. But even as he gained weight, Johnson kept his speed, which he demonstrated throughout Senior Bowl week, especially on one memorable play during the game.
Former Utah State cornerback Will Davis returned an interception 25 yards before Johnson — in a dead sprint — caught up near the sideline and shoved him out.
From the preseason position battle to Twitter critics, to whom he has sometimes responded, Johnson said those who question his ability drive him to work harder.
“A lot of people underestimate me,” Johnson said. “I take people's criticism to heart. It's what fuels me and drives me to get where I'm at today.”
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