Will Johnson Michigan CB: Rising Star in Wolverines’ Defense Ahead of 2025 Season
Will Johnson has emerged as one of college football’s premier cornerbacks during his time at Michigan. The 6’3″ defensive back combines remarkable size with natural athleticism and intelligence, making him a standout in the Wolverines’ secondary. Johnson’s elite ball skills and championship pedigree have positioned him as a potential first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.
The Detroit native has built an impressive resume in Ann Arbor, earning All-American honors twice during his collegiate career. Johnson’s combination of length, coverage ability, and football IQ has NFL scouts salivating as they project his skills to the professional level. His basketball background is evident in how fluidly he tracks and plays the ball in the air, a trait that translated to several game-changing interceptions for the Wolverines.
As Johnson prepares for the next chapter of his football journey, his draft stock continues to rise. His rare blend of size and skill at the cornerback position addresses a perpetual need in the NFL, where teams constantly seek defensive backs who can match up with today’s bigger, more athletic receivers. Johnson’s development at Michigan has refined his raw talent into the polished prospect evaluators now see.
Contents
Early Years and High School Career
Will Johnson’s path to becoming one of college football’s elite cornerbacks began at Grosse Pointe South High School in Michigan. The local product made history as the first four-year starter in his school’s program history.
Standing at over 6-foot-2, Johnson quickly captured attention from major college programs. His physical development matched his on-field growth, leading to scholarship offers from Michigan State, Kentucky, and Florida Atlantic early in his high school career.
Johnson wasn’t just a football standout. His background as a basketball player helped develop the natural athleticism and ball-tracking abilities that would later define his play style at Michigan.
By his senior year, Johnson had blossomed into a five-star recruit, one of the most coveted defensive backs in the nation. His combination of size, instincts, and technical skill made him a can’t-miss prospect.
Johnson’s high school career showcased the complete package: exceptional coverage skills, physicality in run support, and the intellect to diagnose plays quickly. These traits made his transition to college football remarkably smooth.
Recruiting Rankings:
| Service | Ranking | Position Rank | Overall Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 247Sports | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | #3 CB | #14 Nationally |
| Rivals | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | #5 CB | #29 Nationally |
| ESPN | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | #3 CB | #19 Nationally |
Johnson’s decision to stay home and attend Michigan kept a prized in-state talent within borders, setting the stage for what would become a stellar collegiate career.
Collegiate Career at Michigan
Will Johnson’s time at Michigan established him as one of college football’s premier defensive backs. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ helped transform the Wolverines’ secondary during a golden era for the program.
Performance and Statistics
Johnson wasted no time making an impact at Michigan, playing in all 14 games as a true freshman in 2022. He recorded 27 tackles and three interceptions that season, showcasing his natural ball-hawking abilities from the start.
The 2023 season saw Johnson elevate his game to elite status. He tallied 4 interceptions, including a crucial pick-six against Alabama in the College Football Playoff semifinal. His performance in the National Championship Game against Washington earned him Defensive MVP honors.
Through the first half of his junior year in 2024, Johnson has continued his stellar play with 3 interceptions and 18 tackles, allowing just a 42.7% completion rate when targeted.
| Season | Games | Tackles | INTs | Pass Breakups | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 14 | 27 | 3 | 6 | 0 |
| 2023 | 15 | 33 | 4 | 8 | 1 |
| 2024* | 6 | 18 | 3 | 5 | 0 |
| *2024 stats as of April 2025 |
Injuries and Challenges
Despite his success, Johnson has faced his share of adversity. A nagging shoulder injury limited his effectiveness during portions of the 2023 regular season, though he played through the pain during Michigan’s championship run.
More concerning was a toe injury suffered during spring practice in 2024. The injury required minor surgery and forced Johnson to miss valuable development time ahead of his junior campaign.
Johnson also faced the challenge of heightened expectations. After establishing himself as a shutdown corner, opposing quarterbacks increasingly avoided throwing in his direction, limiting his opportunity to make plays on the ball.
The spotlight intensified following Michigan’s coaching change after the 2023 championship, requiring Johnson to adapt to new defensive schemes while maintaining his elite level of play.
Awards and Recognition
Johnson’s trophy case has filled quickly during his Michigan career. He earned First-Team All-Big Ten honors in both 2023 and 2024, cementing his status as the conference’s top cornerback.
The 2023 season brought national recognition with First-Team All-American selections from the Associated Press, FWAA, and Walter Camp. His Defensive MVP performance in the national championship game stands as perhaps his most significant individual achievement.
NFL scouts consistently rank Johnson as a top-10 prospect for the 2025 draft. His combination of size (6’2″, 202 lbs), coverage skills, and football intelligence have him projected as a potential top-5 selection.
Johnson’s leadership earned him team captain honors for the 2024 season, reflecting the respect he commands from teammates and coaches alike in Ann Arbor.
Will Johnson’s Impact on Team Dynamics
Will Johnson transformed Michigan’s defense with his exceptional skills and presence on the field. His influence extended beyond stats, reshaping how the Wolverines approached their defensive strategy and team culture.
Leadership and Role
Johnson emerged as a cornerstone of Michigan’s defensive identity under Coach Harbaugh’s system. Despite being young, he quickly became the defensive quarterback in the secondary, directing traffic and ensuring proper alignments before each snap.
His teammates gravitated toward his calm demeanor and preparation habits. When Michigan needed a play, all eyes turned to #2. The coaching staff trusted him with the toughest assignments, often shadowing the opponent’s top receiver regardless of formation.
Johnson earned Defensive MVP honors in 2023, displaying his value to the Wolverines. His film study habits became legendary within the program, with younger defensive backs modeling their preparation after his meticulous approach.
NFL Draft Projection:
| Category | Ranking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Position | #1 CB | Despite injury concerns |
| Draft Round | Top 15 pick | Could slip due to toe injury |
| Best NFL Fit | Raiders | Pete Carroll’s system values his skills |
Key Games and Rivalries
Johnson’s performances in rivalry games elevated his status in program history. Against Ohio State in 2022 and 2023, he delivered clutch plays that disrupted the Buckeyes’ passing attack and helped secure back-to-back victories for the Wolverines.
The 2023 season saw Johnson at his peak during the College Football Playoff run. Despite facing elite receivers from Alabama and Washington, he allowed minimal separation and showcased his NFL-ready technique.
Unfortunately, Johnson’s turf toe injury against Illinois sidelined him for the final six games of his Michigan career. The defense remained strong but missed his lockdown abilities in critical moments.
The undefeated Wolverines of 2023 benefited tremendously from Johnson’s contributions before his injury. His absence created opportunities for younger players to develop, but coaches privately acknowledged the defensive scheme had to adapt without their star cornerback.
Path to the 2025 NFL Draft
Will Johnson’s journey to the NFL Draft has positioned him as one of the premier defensive backs available in 2025. His combination of ideal size, technical prowess, and game-changing ability has scouts salivating over his potential as a shutdown cornerback at the next level.
NFL Scouting Combine Performance
While the scouting community eagerly awaits Johnson’s official workout numbers, his physical attributes already have teams buzzing. At 6-foot-2 and 194 pounds, Johnson possesses the ideal size for an outside cornerback with length that allows him to disrupt passing lanes.
Experts anticipate Johnson will showcase impressive athleticism in his 40-yard dash and vertical jump. His game tape demonstrates fluid hip movement and recovery speed that should translate to strong testing numbers.
Johnson’s previous performances at Michigan revealed a player with exceptional ball skills and the ability to mirror receivers. These traits will be scrutinized closely during positional drills, where his technique and reactionary abilities will be on full display.
Pre-Draft Analysis and Projections
Johnson has firmly established himself as a top prospect, with mock drafts consistently placing him in the first round. Several analysts have him projected as high as the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
His draft stock rests on impressive credentials: Johnson was an interception machine during his time at Michigan, demonstrating the playmaking ability NFL teams covet in secondary players.
| Attribute | Johnson’s Profile | NFL Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6’2″, 194 lbs | Ideal frame for boundary CB |
| Playing Style | Physical, technique-sound | Day 1 starter potential |
| Ball Skills | Elite interception ability | Turnover creation |
| Projected Round | First (Top 10) | Immediate contributor |
Scouts praise Johnson’s ability to smother wide receivers and his advanced understanding of route concepts. His technique and football IQ separate him from other cornerback prospects in this class.
Colleague Perspectives
Michigan Head Coach Sherrone Moore has repeatedly highlighted Johnson’s professionalism and work ethic. Moore’s endorsement carries significant weight, especially following the foundation laid by previous coach Jim Harbaugh.
Former NFL defensive backs analyzing Johnson’s game point to his versatility as a key selling point. His ability to play in various coverage schemes makes him adaptable to any defensive system at the next level.
Teammates, including fellow top prospect defensive tackle Mason Graham, have praised Johnson’s leadership qualities. Graham, also projected as a first-round selection, frequently mentions how Johnson’s coverage skills allowed the front seven to be more aggressive.
Draft analysts consistently mention Johnson alongside Georgia safety Malaki Starks and Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden III as prospects teams shouldn’t overthink in the evaluation process. The consensus is clear: Johnson has the complete package to succeed immediately in the NFL.
Professional Football Outlook
Will Johnson’s trajectory toward the NFL is one of the most promising among defensive backs in recent memory. His combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ has scouts buzzing as the draft approaches.
Potential NFL Teams
Johnson stands out as a prime landing spot for the Jacksonville Jaguars, with multiple mock drafts placing him at No. 5 overall. This would make him one of the highest-drafted cornerbacks in recent years.
The Miami Dolphins have also shown significant interest in the Michigan standout. NFL analysts believe Johnson could be an immediate upgrade to their secondary, with Daniel Jeremiah noting that Johnson possesses Pro Bowl potential.
The New Orleans Saints represent another potential fit, as they continue searching for elite talent in their defensive backfield. Johnson’s ability to play both man and zone coverage makes him scheme-versatile for any NFL defense.
Teams picking in the top 10 can’t ignore his combination of size, speed, and production at a premium position.
Positional Analysis
Johnson’s draft stock is bolstered by his exceptional coverage skills, reflected in his impressive metrics. When targeted last season, quarterbacks posted a mere 41.5 passer rating, highlighting his shutdown capabilities.
| Skill Area | Rating | NFL Ready? |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 85% | Yes |
| Run Defense | 79% | Yes |
| Tackling | 62% | Needs Development |
| Overall | 81% | Day 1 Starter |
Johnson excels particularly in off coverage, where scouts describe him as “very smooth and relaxed”. This technique versatility will allow defensive coordinators to deploy him in various schemes.
A minor concern is the hamstring injury that sidelined him for Michigan’s pro day. However, reports indicate the injury isn’t serious enough to affect his draft position.
Impact on Sports Betting
Johnson’s draft position has become a hot topic in NFL draft betting markets. The over/under for his selection currently sits at 6.5, with heavy action on the under after his standout combine performance.
Proposition bets related to Johnson being the first cornerback selected are gaining popularity, currently showing -150 odds at major sportsbooks. This reflects the consensus view that he’s the premier defensive back in this class.
The correlation between his selection and team-based futures is noteworthy. Teams like Jacksonville see improved Super Bowl odds when paired with Johnson in simulation models.
Bettors should monitor his pre-draft workouts and team visits carefully, as any additional positive reports could further shorten his draft position odds and increase his impact on related markets.
Legacy and Influence
Will Johnson has quickly established himself as one of the most impactful cornerbacks in Michigan Wolverines history. The legacy he’s building in Ann Arbor connects deeply to his father’s own Michigan journey, creating a powerful family tradition in maize and blue.
“I feel like I did a lot of great things here,” Johnson reflected on his Michigan career. His humility masks what has been a transformative presence in the Wolverines’ secondary.
Johnson’s development hasn’t happened in isolation. He openly credits teammate Mike Sainristil’s mentorship, saying “he’s taught me a lot of things” – a testament to the culture of accountability within Michigan’s defensive backs room.
Johnson thrives under dual influences: his father’s athletic legacy at Michigan and his mother’s wisdom in navigating the spotlight.
In the Big Ten, Johnson’s shutdown abilities have redefined what’s possible for a cornerback in the conference. His combination of size and athleticism makes him the prototype for modern NFL cornerbacks.
NFL Draft Projection
| Draft Ranking | Position Ranking | Key Strengths | NFL Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top 15 Overall | #2 CB (behind Hunter) | Length, Coverage Skills, Tackling | Sauce Gardner |
NFL scouts praise Johnson for his frame and smothering coverage techniques. His recent hamstring injury hasn’t dampened enthusiasm, with multiple teams scheduling private workouts ahead of the 2025 draft.
Johnson’s legacy at Michigan is still being written, but his influence on the program’s defensive identity is undeniable.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
Will Johnson’s journey as Michigan’s standout cornerback has captivated media attention across multiple platforms. His draft stock, injury concerns, and on-field performance have become regular talking points for analysts and fans alike.
Local and National News Outlets
Michigan outlets have consistently highlighted Johnson as a cornerback phenom. The Michigan Daily dubbed him the “best corner in college football”, directly quoting coach Sherrone Moore’s high praise. This local adoration reflects the immense respect Johnson commands within the program.
National coverage has focused heavily on Johnson’s NFL potential. Once viewed as a potential top prospect in the 2025 NFL draft, his standing shifted following a turf toe injury in his final Michigan season.
ESPN analysts regularly feature Johnson in their cornerback rankings, noting his exceptional coverage skills despite playing through injuries. Yahoo Sports published a detailed scouting report highlighting his “prototypical modern NFL cornerback” build and ability to “smother wide receivers.”
NFL Draft Projections (Pre-Injury vs. Current)
| Source | Pre-Injury Ranking | Current Ranking | Projected Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| Field Level Media | Top 10 | Top 15-20 | 1st |
| ESPN | Top 5 CB | Top 10 CB | 1st-2nd |
| Yahoo Sports | Top 15 | Top 25 | 1st-2nd |
Social Media Presence
Johnson’s performance generates significant buzz on social media platforms, particularly after big games. Fans regularly share highlights of his lockdown coverage and interceptions, creating viral moments during Michigan’s championship run.
Despite the injury concerns, support from Michigan fans remains unwavering. Many defend Johnson online when draft analysts question his durability, pointing to his All-American season in 2023 despite not being fully healthy.
NFL draft communities actively debate Johnson’s pro potential, with many still projecting him as a first-round selection. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique continues to generate positive discussion among draft enthusiasts.
The revelation that Johnson played through injuries during his decorated 2023 campaign has actually bolstered his reputation among many fans, who view his toughness as an additional asset alongside his obvious physical talents.
Key Matchups and Performances
Will Johnson has established himself as one of college football’s premier cornerbacks through several statement games against top competition. His ability to make game-changing plays while shadowing opponents’ best receivers has significantly boosted his draft stock.
Highlight Plays
Johnson’s ball-hawking skills have been on full display throughout his Michigan career, with seven interceptions across his first two seasons. His knack for turning defense into offense is particularly impressive, with three pick-sixes that showcase his vision and athleticism after securing turnovers.
Against Ohio State in 2023, Johnson delivered perhaps his most memorable performance when he intercepted Kyle McCord twice, including a crucial pick in the fourth quarter that helped seal Michigan’s victory. The way he read McCord’s eyes and jumped the route demonstrated his elite football IQ.
Another standout moment came in the National Championship game against Washington, where Johnson earned Defensive MVP honors for his lockdown coverage and timely plays that neutralized the Huskies’ passing attack.
Johnson’s four interceptions during the 2023 season came at critical moments, with each serving as momentum changers. Two of these picks were returned for touchdowns, showcasing his ability to capitalize on quarterback mistakes.
Significant Opponents
When matched up against USC in 2023, Johnson effectively limited their explosive passing game, holding his coverage assignments to minimal production. His physical press coverage and ability to mirror routes frustrated the Trojans’ receivers throughout the contest.
The Alabama matchup provided another proving ground, with Johnson tasked with containing their athletic receiving corps. Despite facing elite SEC speed, he allowed just two completions when targeted and recorded a crucial pass breakup on a third-down play late in the game.
Perhaps most impressively, Johnson’s battle with Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. demonstrated his NFL readiness. While Harrison made some plays, Johnson’s competitive coverage forced several off-target throws and showcased his ability to handle future first-round talent.
| Opponent | Targets | Completions Allowed | PBUs | INTs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | 8 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| Washington | 6 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| Alabama | 7 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| USC | 5 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
Currently projected as a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Johnson’s performances against elite competition have scouts salivating over his combination of size, technique, and playmaking ability.
Statistical Analysis
Will Johnson’s numbers at Michigan tell a compelling story. The cornerback has established himself as one of college football’s premier defensive backs through his consistent playmaking ability.
In his Michigan career, Johnson has been a turnover machine. His interception skills have been particularly impressive, showcasing his natural ball-hawking instincts that NFL scouts covet.
What stands out most about Johnson isn’t just the quantity of his plays but the quality. He doesn’t just intercept passes – he changes games with his returns. Johnson has made multiple pick-sixes that swung momentum in critical moments for the Wolverines.
The 6’2″, 202-pound defender combines his coverage abilities with solid tackling technique. His willingness to support the run defense separates him from other coverage specialists in the 2025 draft class.
| Season | Games | Tackles | INTs | INT Return Yards | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 14 | 27 | 3 | 45 | 0 |
| 2023 | 15 | 33 | 4 | 78 | 1 |
| 2024* | 8 | 19 | 3 | 52 | 1 |
| *2024 statistics through current date |
Johnson is consistently projected as a first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of excellent length and size with a filled-out frame makes him an ideal fit for today’s NFL defensive schemes.
His 4.39 forty time (86th percentile) confirms what the tape shows – Johnson has the speed to match up with elite NFL receivers. This combination of size and speed is precisely why scouts have him rated so highly.
The numbers only tell part of Johnson’s story, though. His ability to lock down top receivers has often resulted in quarterbacks avoiding his side of the field entirely – a statistical impact that doesn’t show up in conventional box scores.
