In every top-tier offense, there needs to be a receiver that separates himself from the pack. Florida Atlantic is no different. In Tom Herman’s high-octane offense with new quarterback Cam Fancher, a top-notch, number-one option is needed to ensure it operates successfully. A talented receiver needs to be relied upon consistently, whether in critical moments or on a down-to-down basis.
That receiver could be more slot-based, relying on shiftiness and quickness to make plays in space. It could also be a bigger receiver on the outside, dominating cornerbacks in contested catch situations and winning down the field with speed.
While it is not clear who that player might be for FAU, one of their biggest contenders is Marlyn Johnson, a transfer from the University of Buffalo who fits the latter description of dominating with their size.
FAU Player Spotlight: Marlyn Johnson
Johnson is one of FAU’s key transfers for the 2024 season on the offensive side of the ball. He stands at 6-feet-4-inches and weighs 200 pounds, giving him a prototypical X receiver build.
Before transferring to FAU, Johnson played four years for the Buffalo Bulls of the Mid-American Conference. He played sporadically until 2023, which is when he had his breakout season. In 13 games, the wideout had 39 receptions for 486 yards and four touchdowns. His best performance was against Fordam, where he had 97 yards and two touchdowns.
As a player, Johnson provides some interesting versatility for someone his size. He played 215 snaps on the outside, but also logged 155 snaps in the slot.
Johnson also thrived as a contested-catch, downfield threat in Buffalo’s offense. His ADOT, or average depth of target, was 10.5 yards. He had six contested catches, matching his total from the 2022 season. Additionally, Johnson displayed a bit of after-the-catch ability, having 209 YAC and seven missed tackles forced.
As a blocker, Johnson was relatively average in the running game – which isn’t a negative for a wide receiver. He had a 62.6 PFF run blocking grade, which fell in line with his career averages at Buffalo.
2024 Outlook with the Owls
At the very worst, Johnson is a situational player for the Owls. His size and contested catch ability immediately make him a vital presence on third downs and in the red zone. He also thrives in the middle of the field, making him a reliable safety valve for Fancher.
However, Johnson has some untapped upside at FAU.
Herman’s offense could unlock a more consistent avenue for Johnson to be a deep ball threat. Fancher’s vertical and aggressive throwing ability and style match up very well with Johnson, too. The quarterback will want to push the ball down the field, and Johnson has the intangibles and skills to become the go-to target on those plays.
If everything goes according to plan, Johnson could serve as the primary threat for an increasingly vertical FAU offense. He would be given ample contested catch opportunities in the red zone and receive a target load that could potentially show off his all-around talent as a player. This would be in conjunction with any improvements made as a blocker.
Real, live reps will reveal what Johnson’s FAU tenure will be all about. But whether it is in a situational or featured role, Johnson has a key role to play for the Owls’ offense in 2024.
