HawgBeat's top-20 countdown series previews 20 players who are expected to have the biggest impact for Arkansas football in 2023. The series will provide details on each player's measurables, their 2022 season, an outlook for 2023 and HawgBeat's take.
Checking in at No. 8 is redshirt junior defensive back Lorando "Snaxx" Johnson.
LORANDO JOHNSON
Position: Defensive back
Year: Redshirt-junior
Height, Weight: 6-foot, 195 pounds
PFF Grade in 2022: 75.0
Snaps played in 2022: 704
2022 SUMMARY
A native of Lancaster, Texas, Johnson was a three-star cornerback prospect coming out of high school. He originally enrolled at Baylor, where he played his first three seasons.
In 2022, the 6-foot-0 defensive back totaled 16 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, five passes defended and one forced fumble. Johnson finished with a 76.2 coverage grade (third-best in secondary), 62.9 run defense grade and 55.4 pass rush grade according to Pro Football Focus.
Johnson had two tackles at No. 21 BYU on Sept. 10 and on Oct. 1 against No. 7 Oklahoma State, he had two tackles, a tackle for loss and two pass breakups. In a game against No. 23 Texas, Johnson finished with four tackles and a pass breakup.
The redshirt-junior was part of a Baylor defense that ranked fourth in the Big 12 in points allowed up per game (26.8).
2023 OUTLOOK
As a newcomer, Johnson's 2023 outlook is hard to predict. The Baylor transfer had success with the Bears and is a willing tackler, something the Razorback defense desperately needs.
Johnson could play anywhere in the secondary, but he is expected to end up as a starting corner along with Dwight McGlothern.
In 2023, look for Johnson to start and make a huge impact. With experience against high-scoring offenses in the Big 12, Johnson should be able to withstand punches thrown his way in the SEC.
HAWGBEAT'S VIEW
Johnson is the fourth defensive back to appear on the top-20 countdown list, coming in at No. 8 above Jaheim Singletary (No. 16), Alfahiym Walcott (No. 12) and Hudson Clark (No. 10).
The Baylor transfer played well during spring practice and brought plenty of energy.
"I bring energy," Johnson said. "I don’t know if I’m just trash talking. I don’t know. Whatever gets them off (their game). Whatever gives the defense an advantage I will (do)."
That energy fits right into the secondary alongside McGlothern, who has also earned a reputation as a talkative guy on the field.
With his energy, experience and athletic ability, HawgBeat believes Johnson could be one of the team's best defenders in 2023.
Arkansas Football Top 20 Countdown
8. Lorando Johnson
