Is ECU's Chris Johnson the next kick returner to make a Devin Hester like impact? As the 2008 NFL Draft quickly approaches, there are several players with huge added value as return men. The War Room Report looks at their top rated kick and punt returners. 1. Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina – Johnson jumped onto many peoples radar with an outstanding performance in ECU’s bowl game shocker over Boise State, where he had over 400 total yards. However, he has consistently been a receiving and kick returning threat for the Pirates. He finished the season with a 28.0 yard average per kick return and a touchdown. He has been named first teamer on the C-USA team as a kick returner twice, and has highlight reel speed and quickness. He is the fastest player in the 2008 draft, and while he may not find a steady home as a running back, he will contribute greatly as a kickoff returner. 2. DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal – Winner of the inaugural Randy Moss Award for top collegiate kick returner in 2006, Jackson finished his career at Cal with 6 career punt return TDs. He has terrific long speed and outstanding quickness. He scored a touchdown for the Golden Bears in their opener against Tennessee, but was hampered with injuries through much of the season. He is one of the top returners we have seen enter the draft in recent years, just shy of the Devin Hester level. 3. Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy – McKelvin might be the top cornerback selected, but he also is a phenomenal return man. He was the primary punt and kick returner for the Trojans, scoring 3 times on punt returns in 2007 and averaged an impressive 17.4 yards per return. He has 8 total career kick returns while in the Sun Belt. He has received numerous awards for his return ability and uses his terrific natural speed to avoid the defense. He is a much better punt returner than kick returner and will be selected primarily for his upside as a defensive back, but he could make a big difference returning punts in the NFL level. link http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=292&Itemid=1
