2013 DB/WR Jonathan Johnson (Matthews, NC/Jireh Prep) has been on the radar for top college football programs around the country for more than a year now, and with his recruitment coming to an end in the near future Johnson is ready to complete his visits and research so that he can begin the next chapter in his still young football career. PrepForce.com had a chance to catch up with Johnson to discuss his recruitment and his life ‘Beyond the Game.’
“I went to Indiana last month and that visit really went well and got me thinking a lot about the Big 10 and their program,” said Johnson about the Hoosiers. “They really made sure I was having fun and learning about their program. I felt at home there,” added Johnson about his visit to Indiana.
According to Johnson, having the opportunity to hang out and talk to current players is a great opportunity to learn things about a specific program outside of what the coaches have to say. Johnson also does some research on the programs that he wants to learn more about.
“Hanging out with the players is really good. It gives you a chance to see where they’re coming from and how they feel about the school,” said Johnson. “I watch games and do research on the programs. I look up the roster, history and watch the games with my teammates,” added Johnson.
As for other visits Johnson is hoping to take – heading back home appears to be a must visit for him.
“Illinois,” answered Johnson. “Champagne [Illinois] is my hometown so I really want to get up there and check them out ASAP,” added Johnson.
Prep Force: Who is your celebrity crush?
Jonathan Johnson: MEGAN FOX!!! Love that girl haha she is beautiful
PF: Who is your favorite athlete?
JJ: I would have to say Brandon Jennings he keeps it real loves to compete doesn’t let his size determine or factor how he plays. Also, he is relentless.
PF: When watching the TV – what do you watch the most?
JJ: I watch ESPNU that’s about it. I don’t watch too much TV really
PF: What’s your favorite thing to do when not playing sports?
JJ: When I’m not at football I watch YouTube videos on skills to get stronger, better and what’s going to help me out in the future when I do go to college.
PF: Who is the best player you have ever played against?
JJ: Best player is probably Laquon Treadwell – that kid is dangerous
PF: What is your favorite sports memory that doesn’t involve yourself?
JJ: I would have to say watching all my friends actually go and do something with their lives instead of doing drugs and being influenced by the world.
PF: Which pro player best reflects the type of game you have now?
JJ: DeSean Jackson
PF: Is the recruiting process everything you expected? If not, what things surprised you most?
JJ: No! I just realized recruiting is everyday it’s crazy that it can change in a minute. I love the process honestly, and the crazy fans!
PF: What has been most annoying part about the recruiting process?
JJ: I would have to say not knowing where I’m going to end up. I go to bed every night thinking about my future. It’s a fun but scary process!
PF: Which do you look more forward to, playing at home in front of excited, cheering fans? Or playing on the road in a more hostile environment?
JJ: I want to play at home every game get the fans into it I love that atmosphere
PF: When Jonathan Johnson is on a team – what kind of player does that team have?
JJ: I am a energetic compassionate intense player, always ready for competition!!! I will compete at any level, I will not hold back and I will encourage my teammates and count on them as well.
PF: Which coach has meant the most to your career so far, and why?
JJ: There’s more than one coach that has blown me away. A lot of them are really cool guys and love the game a lot.
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Jonathan Johnson is on twitter at @J2smoothh