Illinois DT Johnny Newton, a projected 1st-round pick, just wrapped up an impressive Pro Day — showcasing elite explosion and power after a Jones fracture that he’s fully healed from.

I’m told the following teams were in attendance, among others:

Bills
Cowboys
49ers
Jets… pic.twitter.com/ggMIiIBkub

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 16, 2024

According to a report from Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz, at least eight teams were in attendance at the Illinois Pro Day. Defensive Tackle Jer’Zhan (Johnny) Newton headlined the event as the only first-round projected prospect for Illinois.

Last season, the 6’2, 304-pound Newton recorded 26 solo tackles and eight sacks. He had the fourth-most sacks in the Big 10 last year in his twelve starts. He was named the 2023 Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year.

Last season, New Orleans aggressively drafted defensive linemen to improve from the lackluster performance in 2022. First-round pick Bryan Bresee had an impressive rookie season with 12 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks.

Perhaps the team believes that Bresee along with new additions like Chase Young need additional support to revolutionize the defensive line. Last season, New Orleans allowed 327 opponent yards which ranked 13th in the league.

Johnny Newton sack.

Too quick
Too strong
Too powerful pic.twitter.com/VESxgQXsKf

— Illinois Football Focus (@IlliniFB) November 25, 2023