Interview: 6-Offer 2021 Texas RB Christian Johnson Talks 1,000-Yard Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Being a tailback going against Texas 5A defenses is tough enough, but being the focal point of the offense seeing eight guys in the box makes life even more challenging. For Class of 2021 Wylie East running back Christian Johnson, it was just another day at the office. After carrying the rock 164 times for 721 yards with six touchdowns as a junior in 10 games, the 5-8, 180-pound, talent tore it up in 2020 covering 1,016 yards with 11 trips into the end zone in just eight games. The efforts on the field have brought six offers for one of the Lone Star State’s top hidden talents.
In an RNG update interview, Johnson breaks down his senior campaign with a quick update on recruiting.
*Click the link for the Nov. 12, 2020, RNG interview with Christian Johnson
Interview
Christian, I can’t put forward enough positive comments about you and the senior season you produced. I know it was not ideal only getting to play eight games, but from your perspective how did the 2020 season go for you personally?
It was great. I had to try to enjoy my last year and make the most of it. I worked to be the best I can be with the time given.
The world knew you were getting the rock, and yet you still found a way to produce averaging five yards per carry and 127 yards per game on the ground. What was driving you to success this year?
Knowing that this is my last one and that not every game is promised. We were quarantined two weeks into the season. It hit me how hard you need to play, because you never know when the last game will be.
I always have to ask. From the start of the season to the end, which areas showed the biggest improvement in your game?
My pass blocking got better throughout the season and breaking runs for big gains.
What do you now feel are all the things you do well on the field as a running back?
My field vision and my football IQ. My speed is still coming along. I am always working on that.
The season for the Raiders ended on Dec. 4, what have you been doing to keep up the progress with your offseason workouts?
Man, I’ve been working out and lifting weights. The college weight is different. I have been getting ready for that. Just working, working, and working.
Are you competing in any other sports for Wylie East this year?
Yes, I will be running track
Which events?
Probably the 100 and 200.
What cumulative GPA are you pulling in the classroom?
A 3.2.
Nice. How many offers do you have now?
I just received an offer from McPherson and Graceland. I have six now.
Johnson’s Offer Sheet: Graceland, McPherson, Mt. Marty, Pacific University, St. Norbert, and Whittier College
Last question for you. For the college coaches out there who may not be familiar with you or your game, what separates you from other senior running backs in the 2021 class? If a program offered you a scholarship, what would you bring to their roster?
I’d bring a hard-working leadership attitude from someone who knows it is not easy. I know not everything is given to you. You have to work for everything.
Christian, it is always great catching up with you. Again, congratulations on the senior season turned in and good luck with your recruiting process going forward.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Johnson family; Christian Johnson
Photo credit: QB Photos/Johnson family; Christian Johnson