Michigan championship impresses four-star ATH Darrell Johnson, Auburn this weekend
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There is an elite list of college programs after Dodge County four-star linebacker-defensive back Darrell “Duke” Johnson (6-3, 208). The versatility, athleticism, and skill Johnson brings to the field has prompted 31 teams to lay down offers as interest continues to come in from teams like Clemson, Ole Miss, and Kentucky. As the days get closer and closer for 2025 prospects to start narrowing down their list and taking official visits, four teams are pushing above the rest to be among Johnson’s favorites when the time comes.
Johnson listed out the teams making that recruiting push, “Michigan, Florida State, Tennessee, and Virginia Tech.”
After the Wolverines made their perfect run through the 2023 season capturing a national championship with a 34-13 win over Washington, Johnson spoke about watching it all happen.
“I knew Michigan was going to win from Day 1,” Johnson shared. “It was a great feeling seeing them winning the natty after talking to them every day. It was a great feeling.”
In recent months, Johnson has taken trips to FSU, Florida, and Georgia. Another round of visits are about to begin.
“I am going to Auburn on Saturday,” Johnson said. “I have Tennessee coming up, South Carolina, Oregon, and Michigan too. Michigan has to get back with me on when I can visit.”
Previewing his trip to The Plains, Johnson stated, “I am excited. I will be with the coaches and watching some basketball. This will be my first time being there, I am really excited.”
The winter visits are important for Johnson.
“I’ve been thinking about dropping a top five, but I will wait,” Johnson shared. “I will probably commit soon. I want to take more visits to see if that is where I want to go.”
*Click the link for the Aug. 18 RNG interview with Duke Johnson.