New Georgia DL commit James Johnson earns 5-star ranking from Rivals

Georgia secured a big recruiting coup last month, beating out Florida, Miami, Florida State and Texas for Miami Northwestern (Fla.) defensive lineman James Johnson.

The 6-foot-2, 285-pounder was one of the country’s most sought-after recruits over the past few months, taking official visits with each of those programs. Ultimately though, UGA won out. And in doing so, they picked up an elite defensive lineman.

On Monday, that status was further solidified as Johnson was rated a 5-star recruit in the updated Rivals300 rankings. He now checks in as the nation’s No. 10 overall prospect and the top defensive lineman nationally.

Johnson is coming off a junior campaign where he racked up 60 tackles (29 TFLs), five sacks and five quarterback hurries in 9 games for North Fort Myers (Fla.). Ahead of his senior season, he opted to transfer to Miami-area powerhouse Northwestern, where he’ll anchor one of the Sunshine State’s best defenses.

Once his senior season is complete, Johnson will head up to Athens as one of the prizes of Georgia’s elite 2026 recruiting class.

Johnson broke down his commitment with Rivals

In an interview with Rivals’ Chad Simmons about his decision, Johnson said development and scheme fit were huge factors in choosing UGA.

“Georgia is DLU,” Johnson said. “They are all about development. What made Georgia No. 1 is the way they develop defensive linemen, my relationships with the coaches and the fit into their scheme. They run a great defense that really fits the way I play, so I know I can excel there. That is what it came down to.”

Defensive line coach Tray Scott was the leader in Johnson’s recruitment. The two connected both on the field and off of it as well.

“The players love Coach Scott at Georgia,” Scott said. “We have a great relationship and he is about his players. They know his family, he is very personable and he puts guys in the league. Players want to work for coach Scott and I love that.”