Interview: 2023 Louisiana WR/DB Micah Johnson Updates Ole Miss Camp and Visit
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The future is bright for Class of 2023 athlete Micah Johnson, but that spells a lot of trouble for opposing Louisiana squads. The 6-2, 2115-pound, Parkview Baptist standout worked his developing magic on both sides of the ball last season grabbing more spotlight with the bigger numbers on offense with 411 yards off 36 receptions making six visits into the end zone. But Johnson is a bellringer on defense as that versatile defensive back putting down 14 ball carriers with one forced fumble and posting one very determined pick-six on the board.
With summer visits and college camps heating up, Johnson took a break to update us on his Ole Miss camp performance.
Interview
Micah, you had an explosive sophomore season getting time in on both sides of the ball. After all that production, and now knowing what to expect on the field, how has that helped you prepare this offseason for the 2021 schedule?
I know what I need to work on this offseason. I will have more confidence, more experience than others, and I will be more prepared this year.
Within the team’s Spread offense, what are some of the routes you execute?
I run a lot of curls, hitches, slants, and digs.
What are you doing to make those routes extra crispy this summer?
I work on my explosiveness and route running, a lot. I put a lot of time into my craft.
You got a well-deserved pick-six during the 2020 season, what role(s) will you be taking on with the Eagles defense this fall?
My coach may move me around this season between strong safety and outside linebacker; that’s what I will be playing mostly this year.
What is the Eagles’ base defense?
We are a 4-3.
How are you preparing for your time on defense now?
I’m doing defensive drills. Last year I focused on offense, this year I am working both. Whatever I can do to help my team win.
Getting that two-way look, how is that helping you understand the nuances of the game more as a receiver?
I know the coverages and I know where the open spots will be. I can beat the DB because I know what will be open. Playing both ways, it helps me get the ball.
Which is your favorite position?
A lot of people may think it is receiver but I love playing strong safety. Defense is fun.
Which camps have you been to so far this offseason?
I went to ESPN 300 and an Ole Miss camp.
Tell me about the ESPN camp.
It was fun. It got me a lot of exposures, and I got to see how other kids move and play.
And the Ole Miss camp, how did that go?
I was ready for that camp. It was fun. I felt that I did great. I loved the coaches and felt that I did well.
During the Ole Miss trip, what all did you see and do?
We toured the school. When I went, I didn’t know I was going to the camp, but I did my thing at the camp. I met all the coaches and went into the weight room; we saw the whole school.
To make clear, you performed at the camp but didn’t know ahead of time that you would be doing so?
Yeah, I didn’t’ know. I had my cleats in the car.
Wow. So, you showed out then?
Yes, sir.
Did you get an official 40 time down?
Yes, I ran a 4.65.
Which other camps are coming up for you?
I was thinking about going to an Alabama, Houston, and Louisville camp.
Let’s talk recruiting. After competing at these camps, which programs are showing interest?
LSU, I talked to one of their coaches, Ole Miss, they are looking out for me, and Houston. There are a lot of coaches that are sending me camp invites wanting to see me in person.
Micah, thanks for the update on your workouts and camps so far this summer. Wishing you the best of luck with all the upcoming camps.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Johnson family; Micah Johnson