Michigan DB Quinten Johnson declares for 2024 NFL Draft
The Michigan Wolverines defensive back room got a little lighter on Friday with graduate defensive back Quinten Johnson announcing he will enter the 2024 NFL Draft. He had a sixth season of eligibility remaining but has decided to move on to the next level.
Johnson appeared in all 15 games this season for Michigan in a special teams role and as a defensive back in 14 contests, making 22 tackles and one interception with five passes defended and a forced fumble this season. He could have returned for one more year due to paused eligibility during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Johnson was one of Michigan’s key defensive back reserves this year, recording his first career interception in a win over Bowling Green and having some key moments along the way, including a pass defended against Ohio State and a forced fumble in the Rose Bowl win over Alabama.
Overall, he suited up and played in 45 games during his Michigan career. Following his decision, he released a lengthy announcement via his social media accounts:
As I stand on the precipice of the next chapter in my life, I want to express my deepest gratitude to God for blessing me with the talents that have allowed me to pursue my passion on the football field. A special thank you goes out to my mom, dad, and sister for their constant support and nurturing throughout my journey. Your sacrifices and encouragement have been the driving force behind my success. To my extended family and friends, your cheers and belief in me have fueled my determination. I would also like to thank my coaches and mentors who have poured so much into me throughout my life and have been a crucial part of this incredible journey. Your guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support have played a crucial role in my development both as a player and as an individual.
I am so grateful to the University of Michigan faculty and staff for the unforgettable years that have shaped me in ways I could never have imagined. I was blessed to experience the unparalleled joy of playing in front of the best fan base in the nation while obtaining a degree at “the best university in the world.” It has been my greatest honor to wear the winged helmet, the Michigan jersey, and to play for a community that bleeds maize and blue. To my fellow teammates, our brotherhood has been the biggest blessing of my college experience. Together, we’ve weathered challenges, celebrated victories, and created memories that will forever be etched in the tapestry of my life.
As I take this next step in my journey as a national champion, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the love and support of my incredible community. Thank you once again to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. Your impact on my life is immeasurable, and I look forward to making you proud in the next phase of my football career. With that being said, I am announcing my decision to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft. Thank you, Wolverine Nation, and GO BLUE!
Johnson was a four-star recruit and the No. 335 player in the country coming out of high school in the 2019 recruiting class. The Silver Spring, Maryland native is not currently on any NFL Draft boards, but could raise his profile with a strong offseason workout cycle.
