Jawuan

Johnson

Johnson (5'11/217) represents a major loss for the Huskies. He broke out in a huge way in 2017, racking up 98 tackles (18.0 for loss) while intercepting five passes -- two of which he returned for touchdowns -- and forcing five fumbles. As a graduate transfer, Johnson will be eligible to play immediately with his program-to-be in 2018. As for which schools to keep an eye on for this move, he indicated that he’s looking at the likes of Baylor, TCU and SMU. Johnson would like to move closer to his home in Dallas.

A clutch, clutch transfer get by Horned Frogs HC Gary Patterson, here. Johnson (5'11/217) was a statistical standout for the Huskies this past season, posting 98 tackles (18.0 for loss) while serving as cause for an impressive 10 total turnovers (five interceptions, five fumbles forced). He opted for the transfer this offseason in order to be closer to his home in Dallas, Texas. Just where he’ll settle on the depth chart will shake out in August camp, but he could end up being one of the more impactful transfers in the Big 12 for the coming season.

He explains “Johnson is overlooked in the scouting community but is very much the undersized, explosive, run-and-chase linebacker teams want in the NFL today.” He gave Johnson a sixth-round draft grade, but clearly believes he has plenty of upside. Johnson is a graduate transfer from Northern Illinois who is looking to make his mark in a more competitive conference. He recorded one tackle in TCU’s 55-7 shellacking of Southern university but should see more action against SMU next Saturday.

Johnson was a big get for the TCU defense, who lost their heart and soul of the defense when Travin Howard graduated this spring. “Don’t be surprised if Johnson is one of the more important defensive transfers for 2018,” writes Rittenberg. “He had a breakout season last fall for Northern Illinois, recording five interceptions, five forced fumbles and 18 tackles for loss, as well as 98 total tackles.” If Johnson can give similar production in 2018, the Horned Frogs have a chance to be competitive in the Big 12 this fall.