Two days after de-committing from South Carolina and re-opening his recruitment, Cedartown (Ga.) athlete Jayden Johnson has committed to Arkansas.
The 6-foot-2, 196 pounder had the Razorbacks high on his list before committing to the Gamecocks in June, and Sam Pittman and the staff in Fayetteville never gave up. That effort paid off.
"The Arkansas coaches never slowed down how they recruited me, and even right after I committed, they continued to talk to me and recruit me," said Johnson. "That played a role in my decision. It was really pretty easy for me.
"Coach Carter, coach Odom and coach Pittman all recruited me all the way to the end. They recruited me hard, they were consistent and what made the biggest difference was how comfortable they made me feel.
"I can be myself with them, and that is big for me. I feel really good about my decision."
Johnson is a versatile athlete, and could project at a few different positions, but the Razorbacks see him at free safety. Johnson sees a good fit.
"We run a similar defense as Arkansas, and they see me in a similar role. They like me at safety, then sometimes walk me down to the nickel position too. They play six defensive backs a lot, so I will have the opportunity to play too, so I am excited."
Although he was committed to South Carolina most of the season, he kept his eye on Arkansas. The Razorbacks have surprised many with their play this fall and Johnson is excited about the future.
"It has been a big change from last season," said Johnson. "Coach Pittman has done a great job and the team is playing great. The coaches will keep adding players, keep getting better, and we will start winning those close games.
"I really like how the team has played and the coaches have the team doing a lot better than last year. It will be great when I get there."
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CLASS OF 2021 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
CLASS OF 2022 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
COVERAGE: Rivals Transfer Tracker | Rivals Camp Series
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