Philly Leader

Eagles rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson has made a notable entry into the NFL with his unique size and skills. As the tallest wide receiver selected in the NFL Draft over the past decade, Wilson also set a record at the 2024 NFL Combine with an 84.5-inch wingspan.

Hailing from Pacoima, California, Wilson was drafted in the sixth round from Florida State. He joined a team where he could learn from top receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. His efforts paid off when he scored his first career touchdown during a game against Dallas in Week 10.

In an interview with PhiladelphiaEagles.com, Wilson shared insights about his transition to Philadelphia from California, saying it was "kind of like how I see it in movies." He mentioned that weather was the biggest change for him.

Wilson discussed his nicknames "Birdman" and "Johnski," attributed to his former running back coach David Johnson and friends like Parris Campbell. When asked about sweet potatoes, which he dislikes intensely since eighth grade, Wilson recalled nearly throwing up at dinner once.

A fan of tennis inspired by his grandmother's enthusiasm for the sport, Wilson expressed interest in attending major tournaments like Wimbledon or the French Open someday. His favorite players include Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.

Reflecting on relationships built during his rookie year, Wilson credited teammates such as Parris Campbell, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith for their support and guidance. He also mentioned forming connections with defensive players Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell.

When asked about players who influenced his style of play, Wilson cited Mike Evans and Davante Adams as inspirations due to their similar physical attributes. He also appreciated learning daily from teammates Brown and Smith.

One standout moment for Wilson this season was playing back home in Los Angeles—a unique experience given college football rarely involves coast-to-coast games.