WFL Prospect Profile: Johnny Vennaro

Written by Claude Aeye, Daniel Devito, David Leathers 

BACKGROUND

College: Ohio State
Height/Weight: 5'11" / 215 lbs
Position: Runningback
Class: Junior
Play Style: Speed Back
Finished 3rd in the Heisman Trophy voting

Was given "Pro-Ready" Label at WFL Global: Green Bay

Johnny Vennaro enters the WFL draft as one of the most celebrated prospects in recent memory, following a stellar career at Ohio State where he emerged as a dominant force in college football. His journey to this point has been shaped by his close relationship with his grandfather, a football coach who instilled in him a deep understanding and love for the game during his father's frequent work-related absences.

Physical Profile

At 5'11" and 215 pounds, Vennaro possesses an ideal frame for a modern running back. His build allows him to maintain his explosive speed while having enough mass to withstand the physical demands of professional football. His height gives him natural leverage advantages against defenders, while his weight distribution suggests durability at the next level.

Playing Style and Strengths

Vennaro's identity as a shifty speed back sets him apart in this draft class. His ability to change direction without losing momentum makes him particularly dangerous in space. Unlike traditional speed backs, Vennaro combines his quickness with remarkable balance and vision, allowing him to navigate through traffic while maintaining his explosive potential.

Throughout his time at Ohio State, Vennaro demonstrated an exceptional ability to read blocks and make split-second decisions, skills undoubtedly honed during his formative years under his grandfather's tutelage. His acceleration through holes is elite, and his top-end speed allows him to turn routine plays into game-changing moments.

Areas for Development

The primary concern surrounding Vennaro's transition to the professional level centers on his ability to maintain his effectiveness without the benefit of Ohio State's elite offensive line and trading off snaps with fellow WFL and Ohio State RB Aiden Teixeira. While he's shown instances of creating yards independently, there are questions about whether he can consistently produce when the blocking isn't optimal. Additionally, his reciving skills while adequate, could use refinement to become an every-down back at the professional level. He wasn't asked to do this very much in college since that was Teixeira's specialty.

Professional Outlook

Vennaro's third-place finish in the Heisman race, right behind fellow WFL Prospect Rob Hunt, speaks to his impact at the collegiate level. However, his performance in the National Championship loss to Clemson highlighted both his potential and the areas requiring development. His success in the WFL will likely depend on his landing spot and the offensive system he enters.

Draft Stock and Fit

Teams looking for an immediate impact player in the running game will find Vennaro an attractive option early in the draft. His skill set is particularly valuable in modern offenses that emphasize space and versatility. While there are legitimate questions about his ability to carry an offense single-handedly, his collegiate production and physical tools suggest a high ceiling at the professional level.

Final Evaluation

Johnny Vennaro projects as a potential franchise-changing running back with the tools to contribute immediately in the right system. While the transition from Ohio State's powerful offense to a potentially less talented professional unit presents challenges, his natural abilities and football IQ should help him adapt. His background and character suggest a player who will work to maximize his considerable potential.

Pro Comp: Zach Lott/Stephen Sanders