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Ratings
| Stars | Overall | Position | State | |
| 247Sports | 4 | 37 | 6 | 1 |
| Rivals | 5 | 26 | 4 | 1 |
| ESPN | 4 | 19 | 4 | 1 |
| On3 | 4 | 42 | 9 | 1 |
| 247Sports Composite | 5 | 20 | 4 | 1 |
| On3 Consensus | 5 | 23 | 3 | 1 |
Vitals
| Hometown | Grosse Pointe (Mich.) South |
| Projected Position | Cornerback |
| Height | 6-foot-3 |
| Weight | 190-pounds |
Recruitment
While it seemed to be a no-brained that a Michigan legacy would end up in Ann Arbor, it wasn’t quite so simple.
For a long while, Ohio State led for the five-star, and there were several moments when it appeared that Johnson was set to commit to the Buckeyes. However, Johnson and best friend Domani Jackson — the Mater Dei five-star — intended to be a package deal, which got USC involved. Once the Trojans became a factor, it gave Michigan an opening, yet again. Though Jackson pledged to USC, Johnson committed to the hometown school just over a month later, making it official on Feb. 28, 2021. From there, he became a voracious recruiter for the Wolverines.
Ultimately, while Mike Zordich had done a good job of recruiting Johnson, once the Wolverines brought in Maurice Linguist, it was a game-changer. Even when Linguist left after the spring, considering Johnson was solid at that point, the addition of Steve Clinkscale helped the Wolverines reaffirm and retain him in the class.
Readiness Level
Almost certainly will see the field in year one, but will likely be behind Vincent Gray and DJ Turner (assuming they return).
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Film
Scouting
On3
Possesses tremendous stature at the cornerback position with a high-end frame. Among the bigger cornerback prospects in a strong group at the position nationally. A legitimate top 100 level prospect at defensive back or wide receiver. A smooth mover in his backpedal and when changing directions. Stays attached in coverage. Game moves slow for Johnson. Plays more at safety than other spots on defense, but projects as a boundary corner. Doubles as a playmaking receiver with make-you-miss ability after the catch. Naturally plucks the football at its highest point. Shows burst and acceleration after the catch, initially running away from defenders. Does not have verified speed or athletic testing numbers. With that said, his play speed doesn’t appear to be a big concern. Putting up big numbers on both sides of the ball as a senior. Overall athleticism carries over to the basketball court where he also excels.
247Sports
Great size and still growing. Has length, but is also filled in and looks like a prototypical outside cornerback prospect. Good athlete who excels on the basketball court and has shown top notch ball skills on the football field. Has the size and ball tracking ability to defend bigger outside receivers. Has good technique. Smooth in his backpedal and transition. Smart as far as zone coverage. Has yet to time at an event or in track, so verified speed is one question mark right now. It is possible he will outgrow cornerback if he keeps getting taller and bigger, but at present, projects as a blue-chip boundary cornerback who will be an impact college player and have a good chance to be a higher draft choice.
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