Crimson countdown: No. 19 Jacobe Johnson
The Crimson Countdown is officially on for the 2023 Oklahoma football season. It’s the second season under head coach Brent Venables and expectations are high once again. The Sooners are looking to rebound from the uncharacteristic 6-7 season in 2022.
Every day as we get closer to kickoff, SoonerScoop.com will count down the days with you. Starting with No. 99 and working our way to No. 0, we’ll be there every step of the way.
Crimson Countdown: No. 19 Jacobe Johnson
2022 stats: N/A.
2023 outlook:
The biggest initial question with Johnson was defense or offense. He answered that emphatically as camp began by saying he’s embracing the defensive challenge.
He wants to be a cornerback, left alone on an island. Johnson was a dynamic two-way star at Mustang, and it’s going to be fun to see how he evolves just playing corner.
He’s a different breed at cornerback, with his frame and speed. Cornerback Woodi Washington was quick to call him an athletic freak last week.
Coming in during the summer might keep Johnson away from the field initially because he understands he has to catch up. He said all his skills in the world don’t mean anything if he doesn’t understand the defense.
But if he does pick it up, Johnson could absolutely already work himself into the rotation by season’s end.
2023 cornerback outlook
Oklahoma returns one of its most veteran defensive starters in redshirt senior Woodi Washington. But across from Washington will be one of the more anticipated position battles of fall camp. Sophomore Gentry Williams and JUCO transfer Kendel Dolby appear to be the frontrunners for the job. But true freshmen Jasiah Wagoner and Makari Vickers were impressive in the spring and could fight for the opening. Cornerbacks coach Jay Valai has done a nice job retooling that room after the departures of C.J. Coldon and Jaden Davis.
