SerpApi.Org
Jahiem Johnson, known primarily as ‘Joker’, is one of more than 40 transfer portal additions hoping to help revive an Arkansas defense that finished towards the very bottom of college football a season ago.
Ryan Silverfield‘s first portal class as the Head Hog finished No. 9 overall per the On3 transfer portal class rankings and Johnson was the 16th-best cornerback.
Johnson, a Hammond (La.) native, helped Tulane clinch a spot in the College Football Playoff last season while the leading the American Conference in combined pass breakups (9) and in interceptions (4). He posted an overall grade of 77.1, including 76.2 in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus.
Jon Sumrall coached Tulane to that CFP appearance and spoke highly of his former player during his time at the podium on Wednesday in Tampa (Fla.) at SEC Media Days.
Sumrall described Johnson as having the top qualities you look for.
“Joker Johnson, man, played high school quarterback, enjoyed coaching him at Tulane from Hammond, Louisiana,” Sumrall said. “A smart, dependable, tough player. I think the Razorback fans are going to enjoy
watching him play. A tremendous young man, high character.”
Like Johnson, Arkansas secondary coach Deron Wilson also hails from the New Orleans area and had a previous connection. Johnson recalls the Razorbacks being the first to contact him when he put his name in the portal.
“When I first entered the portal, Arkansas was probably the first team to call,” Johnson said in March during spring practices. “And they were doing my first visit, too. When I came, we went in the meeting room and were just talking ball. I’m like, it just makes sense and I like the defense.
“Once I committed, we started recruiting other people in the portal that can help this team win. You know? I’m focused on winning. I ain’t wanting to postpone nothing. Knowing I like this place, it was a perfect fit. Good coaches and I’m going to be developed the right way. Let’s make it happen and win some games. That was my mindset.”
__Subscribe to HawgBeat now for just $1, visit our homepage to sign up today! This includes complete access to all On3 and Rivals national content, plus The Trough premium message board. __
