In a shocking and unprecedented move, Will Johnson, the top 5-star cornerback for the Michigan Wolverines, has announced his commitment to the Missouri Tigers. This decision comes as a surprise to many in the college football world, as Johnson had been a key figure in Michigan’s elite defense and was widely considered one of the most promising cornerbacks in the nation. Johnson’s decision not only alters the course of his collegiate career but also reflects his evolving focus as he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft.
A Bombshell for Michigan and College Football
Will Johnson’s decision to leave Michigan marks a stunning turn of events. As one of the highest-rated recruits in the 2023 class, Johnson had quickly made an impact in his freshman season. His performances on the field, which included shutdown coverage and key interceptions, made him a standout in Michigan’s defense. As a 5-star recruit, many had expected him to be a cornerstone of the Wolverines for years to come.
However, Johnson’s commitment to Missouri leaves fans and analysts scratching their heads. Michigan had been a championship contender, and Johnson was a key piece of their defensive strategy. His ability to lock down top-tier wide receivers and dominate in one-on-one matchups had made him an indispensable part of the Wolverines’ secondary.
In a statement, Johnson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play for Michigan but emphasized his need for a change. “Playing for Michigan was an honor, and I will always be thankful for the coaching staff and my teammates there,” Johnson said. “That being said, I’m making this move to Missouri because it aligns with my personal and professional goals as I work toward the NFL.”
Focusing on the NFL Draft
Johnson’s decision to commit to Missouri seems to be strategically timed with his goal of entering the 2025 NFL Draft. As one of the top cornerback prospects for the draft, Johnson’s ability to showcase his talents in the SEC may provide the ideal platform for his aspirations. The Southeastern Conference is known for its high-level competition, and the exposure Johnson will get from playing in one of the country’s toughest conferences will undoubtedly boost his draft stock.
Standing at 6’2”, with elite athleticism and a refined skill set, Johnson possesses all the traits NFL scouts look for in a top-tier cornerback. His blend of size, speed, and technique makes him an ideal candidate for a first-round selection, and a move to Missouri allows him to continue developing his game under a new set of challenges.
The Tigers, while not as historically dominant as Michigan, provide a unique opportunity for Johnson to further prove himself in a competitive environment. The Missouri defense will benefit greatly from Johnson’s talent, and the added experience of playing against the best in the SEC will be invaluable as he heads toward his professional career.
Missouri’s Bold Move and New Hope
For Missouri, landing a player of Johnson’s caliber is a significant win. The Tigers have had a tumultuous football history but have been improving steadily over recent years. Johnson’s commitment brings a much-needed boost to the program, signaling their ability to recruit top-tier talent from across the nation. His presence on the field will immediately elevate Missouri’s defense and provide the Tigers with a standout player to build around.
Head coach Eli Drinkwitz expressed his excitement at the addition of Johnson, calling it a game-changer for the Tigers. “Will is one of the top cornerbacks in college football, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Missouri. His talent, work ethic, and leadership will have an immediate impact on our program, and we look forward to seeing what he can accomplish here.”
The SEC, known for producing NFL talent year in and year out, provides an ideal setting for Johnson to sharpen his skills before entering the draft. Playing against some of the toughest teams and most skilled athletes will give him the chance to prove he can compete at the highest level, making him even more appealing to NFL teams in need of a lockdown corner.
The Future of Will Johnson
As Johnson prepares for his transition to Missouri, all eyes will be on him as he sets his sights on the NFL. His decision to leave Michigan and play for Missouri is a bold one, but it could prove to be a decisive step in his journey to the professional ranks.
With his combination of size, athleticism, and skill, Johnson is widely regarded as one of the most promising cornerbacks in the 2025 draft class. His move to Missouri could be the perfect platform for him to showcase his abilities in front of NFL scouts, while also giving him a fresh environment to continue his development as a player.
Johnson’s journey is just beginning, and his decision to join Missouri will be closely followed by fans, analysts, and NFL teams alike as they watch his rise to the next level of football.