CB Chris Johnson 'definitely surprised' Miami Dolphins drafted him

MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins were impressed enough with San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson that they moved up three spots in the first round to draft him 27th overall.

Johnson said "it definitely surprised me" that the Dolphins were the ones selecting him, but he made no effort to hide his excitement over the opportunity.

Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; San Diego State defensive back Chris Johnson (DB17) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Highlights of his discussion with the South Florida media:

• On finding out the Dolphins were taking him: Johnson said his service was spotty so he had to "move around the house" to hear what the Dolphins were saying, including that they traded up to pick him. "Knowing the team values me to move up, I'm just excited to get there and play some ball."
• On his playing style: "Nonstop relentlessness. That's the culture here at San Diego State. I'm going out there to give 100 percent regardless."
• On playing all four years at San Diego State: Johnson said other teams started calling later in his collegiate career but he stayed put specifically for this moment. "My dream is to get where I am now. I did not want to put uncertainties in the air." Johnson said NIL would have given him "a bag of money" but his father assured him, "If you're talented enough, they'll come find you."
• Johnson believes his performance at the NFL Combine was important for scouts to see. "To put concrete numbers down, I feel that helped me."#s dn feel that helped me."
• Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan said it solidified what he already he'd seen of Johnson on tape. Sullivan said it alleviated any concerns he may have had because Johnson wasn't going against, say, SEC competition. Sullivan said with Johnson posting times such as 4.4 in the 40 and having the top athleticism score at the Combine, "It helps you come to the conclusion, 'This guy is exactly what we think he is.' "