Texas is pulling out all the stops to land four-star running back LJ Johnson.
The Longhorns want iron to sharpen iron in their running back room. Their offensive scheme is heavy on using two backs and has produced back to back 1,000 yard rushers.
What may sway recruits away from Texas is the fact that five-star running back Bijan Robinson, the nation’s No. 1 running back from the 2020 recruiting class, is already on campus and expected to take over the lead role. However, Robinson understands the scheme and is taking it upon himself to heavily recruit Johnson to Texas.
“Really that we can come in and fit in together,” Johnson told 247Sports about his recent discussions with Robinson. “It’s college football and running backs have short careers. With the wear and tear on your body, you need two backs to do it.”
Johnson is taking a thorough approach to his recruiting trail and does not want to make a decision until he takes a few trips to different schools this fall. As of now, 247Sports Crystal Ball Predictions have Texas A&M as the favorite. Texas, LSU, Georgia, Auburn, and Oklahoma are all still in the running alongside the Aggies.
“I would say Texas is probably pushing the hardest right now,” Johnson said. The 5-foot-10, 204-pound product from Cypress is currently rated the No. 3 overall running back in the nation out of the 2021 recruiting class.
Texas is no stranger to speed either. Johnson is a combination of big-play ability, foot quickness, and top-end speed. He has a verified 40-yard dash time of 4.42 in 2019.
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