DT Gerrand Johnson 6'2" 285 Rayville (LA)
Johnson enrolled at Missouri in January, and is already working out with the team. He was a three-time All-District performer for Coach Bo Barton at Rayville High School, and was named All-Northeast Louisiana for the second straight year as a senior, when he totaled 84 tackles, including 9 sacks, and recovered 2 fumbles.
Johnson also earned All-State mention during his junior season, when he totaled 91 tackles, including 7 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles, and had 3 fumble recoveries and 3 blocked punts for the season.
Johnson chose Missouri, with an assist from his mother, Sandra Johnson, over Nebraska, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Mississippi State, among others.
Johnson, who enjoys playing most sports and hanging out with friends, is interested in pursuing studies in the areas of fisheries and wildlife at Missouri.
Coach Quotes
"One thing that really attracted me to (Gerrand Johnson), is that I think that his personality is that he will really sell out," said Coach Josh Henson. "I think that he will. I think that he's going to sell out, to be really, really good. We're really excited about him."
"Gerrand Johnson is a real physical, tough, hard-nosed guy," said Coach Craig Kuligowski, who compared the way that Johnson looked on film to former Missouri Tiger, Ziggy Hood. "He's got great explosion off of the ball, which is something that I always look for...................... We're excited about him. We think he fits in good on our defensive line."
Analysis
JP’s Take- Gerrand is a very good person and student. He has a good head on his shoulders and a vision for what he wants in life. Great attitude and very coachable. He looks to have a good football IQ and understands the game.Physically, he explodes off the line and uses his quickness and speed very well to get off the line which makes things difficult for blockers. He also has pretty good strength and plays low using leverage well. He stands his blocker up and sheds him to make plays. Doesn’t get blown off the ball. He has good vision, keeping his head up and following how the play unfolds. That combined with a very good motor and speed gets him in on plays sideline to sideline. He goes till the whistle blows. He is also a solid pass rusher that can get to the QB, and is a physical tackler using good technique. Has the makings of a real playmaker at defensive tackle. Johnson is already on campus and it will be interesting to see how quickly he takes to things and if he looks like he can contribute early.
Greg's Take - Gerrand Johnson is a quality DT, who possesses the size and athleticism to come in and compete for early playing time. He's very quick, and already uses his hands pretty well. He's also very physical, and is explosive at the snap of the ball. At times, he is very disruptive along the line of scrimmage. He'll need to become more consistent. He's a real quality young man who is smart, and who will readily accept coaching.
Gerrand Johnson Senior Highlights