Miami Dolphins trade up, pick CB Chris Johnson in Round 1 NFL Draft

MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins selected San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson with their second first-round pick in the NFL Draft.

The Dolphins swung a trade to land Johnson, moving up three spaces to No. 27 via a swap with the San Francisco 49ers. The Dolphins gave up picks Nos. 30 and 90 and received picks 27 and 138. The 90th pick is late in Round 3; the 138th pick is late in Round 4.

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

Johnson was projected to go in the range where he was selected but was described as an unknown until the NFL Combine. There, he flashed his athleticism, posting a 40 time of 4.4 seconds and a vertical leap of 38 inches. His overall athleticism score was tops among all cornerbacks.

"The secret was out," The Times of San Diego wrote.

Johnson is 6-feet and 3/8 inches and 193 pounds.

Johnson made the Associated Press' All-America second team and was Mountain West co-defensive player of the year.

Chris Johnson scouting report

NFL.com's Lance Zierlein wrote, "Scheme-versatile cornerback prospect with average size and the ability to play inside or outside. Johnson is consistent in mirroring the release from his pedal and rarely labors when transitioning with route breaks. While many college corners lean on lax officiating to grab and maul, Johnson stays disciplined. He trusts his footwork and technique to remain tight to the route. He attacks the catch point with run-through force and is a tenacious wrap-up tackler who can quickly end plays. Big receivers can steal some high-points, but not enough to cause concern. Johnson’s coverage versatility, toughness and athleticism should make him an early starter for a coverage-hungry team."