Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns got an update on top defensive lineman James Johnson on Wednesday.
James Johnson, a 6-foot-4, 280-pound defensive lineman from North Fort Myers High School in Florida, has emerged as one of the most coveted recruits in the 2026 college football class. Ranked as the No. 1 defensive lineman nationally by On3 and among the top 15 overall prospects, Johnson has amassed over 40 scholarship offers from premier programs across the country.
Recruitment Overview
Johnson’s recruitment has intensified, with several elite programs vying for his commitment. In early 2025, he narrowed his list to 10 schools: Georgia, Florida, Florida State, Miami, USC, Syracuse, Penn State, Colorado, UCF, and Texas citeturn0search5. This selection underscores the competitive nature of his recruitment, highlighting the interest from top-tier football programs.
Official Visit Schedule
To further evaluate his options, Johnson has scheduled official visits to several of his top choices. He is set to visit Penn State on May 16, Syracuse on May 30, Miami on June 6, Florida on June 13, and Georgia on June 20 citeturn0search3. These visits will be crucial in shaping his decision, providing him with firsthand experiences of each program’s facilities, coaching staff, and overall environment.
Playing Style and Impact
On the field, Johnson is known for his exceptional strength, agility, and football IQ. During his sophomore season, he recorded 51 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hurries, seven sacks, and three forced fumbles citeturn0search1. His ability to disrupt offensive plays and pressure quarterbacks makes him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Texas Longhorns’ Position
The Texas Longhorns, under the leadership of head coach Steve Sarkisian, have shown significant interest in Johnson. While specific details about their recruitment efforts are not publicly available, their inclusion in Johnson’s top 10 indicates a strong pursuit. Sarkisian’s recent contract extension through 2031 and the team’s success in the SEC may enhance their appeal to top recruits like Johnson.
James Johnson’s recruitment remains one of the most closely watched storylines in college football. As he prepares for his official visits, programs like Texas will be aiming to make a compelling case for why he should join their ranks. His decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the defensive landscape of college football for years to come.
