2023 3-star RB Christopher Johnson talks Oregon interest
Oregon locked in its fourth commitment May 13 for 2023 when 4-star running back Dante Dowdell announced he will play for the Ducks. Who will be the next?
Oregon running backs coach Carlos Locklyn had to put his long-distance glasses on for Christopher Johnson, a 3-star running back out of Dillard (High) in Fort Lauderdale (Fla.).
The On3 Consensus ranks the 5-foot-11, 178-pounder as the nation’s No. 51 rusher and No. 112 player in the Sunshine State. The On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine favors Miami at a 5.7% chance to land Johnson, with Oregon at 3.5%.
ScoopDuck connected with the Broward County native to discuss his background and recruitment process.
“Fort Lauderdale is my hometown,” he said. “It’s super hot here, so I know if I go play somewhere else that’s something I will have to adapt to.”
Growing up, Johnson enjoyed watching some electric football players.
“I always loved watching DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy and Stefon Diggs,” he said.
Johnson gives praise to family members for helping him progress.
“My dad and my cousin really helped me get to where I’m at today by pushing every day and grooming me into the player I am now,” he said. “They didn’t really have all the resources I have growing up, so I feel like I have to make them proud.”
Johnson possesses an elite speed that Oregon track fans can appreciate.
“I broke the 200-meter dash record in Florida by running a 20.78,” he said.
As a youth, Johnson enjoyed watching Oregon, even though he resides 3,247 miles away.
“De’Anthony Thomas was super electric at Oregon, and that’s when Oregon caught my eye,” he said. “I feel very appreciative that the Ducks have offered me and I may have an opportunity to go play there at Oregon.”
Johnson appreciates his relationship with Locklyn.
“Coach Locklyn is one of the best running back coaches that I have met since I started getting recruited,” he said. “My dad really connected with coach Locklyn, and that made me feel a sense of trust.”
What is Johnson seeking most out of a coach?
“I want a coach that can develop me and teach me everything about the game,” he said.
Does he have a timeline for his decision?
“I will most likely commit somewhere around August,” he said.
