2019 Jacksonville WR Jordan Johnson Updates Workouts and Arkansas Unofficial
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Being a talented player in any sport at the high school level does not necessarily ensure justified recognition. For example, a standout defensive end playing in a league against wishbone offenses will not rack up sack numbers. A stud middle linebacker may go under the radar playing against spread attacks that only air it out never getting to meet a running back in the hole. The same theme goes for receivers lining up out wide in a run-heavy offense. All the receivers can do is block their tail off in the running game and take advantage of the rare opportunities when it comes their way. That is exactly what Class of 2019 receiver Jordan Johnson did during his junior campaign.
Johnson’s numbers do not call for immediate next level attention. The Titans grounded and pounded in 2017 against Arkansas 6A East competition. The 6-2, 170-pound, target brought in a conservative stat line of eight receptions for 103 yards with two touchdowns. His reel tells a different story. Johnson has good open-field speed and can take a hit unafraid to go across the middle while keeping focus on the task of coming down with the rock.
For now, mainly smaller schools have taken notice in Johnson, but that is starting to change. Early interest has come in from Harding, Henderson State, Southeast Missouri State, and Oklahoma Baptist, but that list is growing. Over the weekend, in-state powerhouse Arkansas hosted Johnson on an unofficial visit marking his first trip to a Division-I program. In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Johnson covering his growing on-the-field skillset and his visit with the Razorbacks.
Interview
Jordan, you were productive on the field last year for Jacksonville making plays when called upon. What was working for you with your skillset allowing you to make plays as the opportunity presented itself?
“I was creating space and catching the football. My release is a big thing.”
I have to hand it to you, you are a wide receiver not afraid to take a hit or go across the middle. What is your mindset on plays where you are dragging underneath or when the ball is floated knowing you might take a big hit when you come down with it?
“To be honest, in previous years I was worried about that. Now, I just focus on the ball. My dad always tells me you might as well catch it because you’re going to get hit one way or another.”
Is there one game from last season that best exemplifies your talents as a receiver?
“Either the Jonesboro or Pine Bluff game. Against Jonesboro, I showed I can take a hit and hold onto the ball. I showed I am good after the catch too. Against Pine Bluff, I had a smaller cornerback on me. I had a connection with my quarterback – he knew to throw the ball up in my area and that I would go get it. I told him before the play to throw it up and we scored.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“I’m working on getting stronger and faster. My goal is to get to 185 pounds before the season begins.”
Are you playing 7v7 ball, if so, how is that helping improve your game?
“Yes, sir. I am. I am playing with Fast Arkansas. That is helping a lot. I’m going against the best of the best out there. My trainer, JJ Meadors, is helping me as well. He is showing me how to get off the line better, how to read the defensive backs, and how to high-point the ball. Fast Arkansas has helped me with recruiting and my game.”
Have you been to any camps or combines yet?
“Yes, sir. I went to the U.S. Army Combine. I did well in the one-on-ones there.”
Do you have any other upcoming camps scheduled?
“I am waiting on another invite to the Three-Stripe camp. I was supposed to go to the one in Mobile, but it was raining so we did not go. I am supposed to get an invite to the Nike Opening Regional as well.”
Are you receiving any recruiting interest?
“Yes, sir. I am receiving interest from Henderson State, Missouri Baptist, Arkansas, Oklahoma Baptist, Arkansas Baptist, Southeast Missouri State, Indiana Wesleyan, Princeton, Jamestown, Southern Arkansas, Harding, and Hendrix talked to me this morning (Tuesday).”
Over the weekend you took an unofficial visit to Arkansas, how did that go?
“It went great. Some fast Arkansas guys went with me and my trainer went with me as well. He introduced me to all the coaches. Coach (Justin) Stepp (receivers) showed me some tips and told me things they will be watching for from me this season.
“Coach Chad Morris (head coach) talked to us about the program, and about their food and nutrition program. They went over the things we need to focus on to be recruited. We toured the facilities and learned more about their weight and speed programs. They are intent on making sure the players are eating well to perform well on the field.”
Do you have any other visits planned upcoming?
“I have been invited to Hendrix for a Junior Day and I am visiting Houston with Fast Arkansas.”
Are you playing any other sports for Jacksonville?
“Yes, sir. I am running track – the 110 and 300 hurdles.”
How is everything going in the classroom?
“I have a 3.5 GPA.”
Have you taken the ACT or SAT yet?
“I took the ACT recently, I am waiting on the score.”
Last question. If a college coach reads this interview and decides he wants to look into you, what type of student-athlete would they be recruiting?
“They are recruiting a person that is all about the team. I am a leader and a hard worker with a team-first attitude. I am a person that puts in extra work. I am a student-athlete – homework comes first.”
Jordan, thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming 7v7 tournaments.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Johnson family; Jordan Johnson at Arkansas