Dillon Johnson on status for national championship: I won't be 100%, 'but I'll be ready'

Earlier this week, Kalen DeBoer said Washington running back Dillon Johnson should be able to go for Monday’s College Football Playoff national championship against Michigan. Johnson aggravated his foot injury late in the Sugar Bowl against Texas on New Year’s Day, putting his status in jeopardy for the title game.

Saturday, during media day, Johnson said he plans to go. However, he knows he’s not fully healthy.

“I won’t be 100% healthy on Monday, but I’ll be ready,” Johnson said, via The Action Network’s Collin Wilson.

Johnson has been a key piece of the Washington offense this year, leading the running game with 1,162 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground. He left the Sugar Bowl in the final minutes and needed help to get off the field before the Huskies held on to defeat Texas thanks to a great defensive play at the final second.

Dillon Johnson’s availability for the national championship will be critical for Washington, going up against a staunch Michigan defense. While the Huskies rely heavily on the passing game, getting the rushing attack going will be essential to open up the full skillset of the unit.

Kalen DeBoer: Dillon Johnson ‘had a good week’ after aggravating his injury

Speaking with reporters on Saturday, DeBoer again said Johnson should be able to play, and he didn’t miss any practice time ahead of the national title game.

“We’re expecting him to play,” DeBoer said. “He’s been through this over the last couple of months, and he hasn’t missed any time there. He’s had a good week getting back healthy.”

As Washington and Michigan both get ready for their 15th game of the year, DeBoer admitted it’s hard for players to be 100%. That said, he thinks as a group, his players are going to be ready to go try and win a championship on Monday at NRG Stadium in Houston, and they’re in a good spot from a health standpoint.

“I think that’s how it is for a lot of our guys. I’m sure Michigan has the same thing. A lot of guys that aren’t 100 percent,” DeBoer said. “But he’s headed in a good direction here this week as we get ready for kickoff.”

It’s shaping up to be an interesting battle between Michigan and Washington — two teams with vastly different playing style. That adds to the excitement of the national championship, which will kick off Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.