James Johnson, the highly touted 5-star defensive lineman out of Texas, remains firm in his commitment to the Longhorns despite continued interest from other major programs. Florida and Miami, two perennial powerhouses with strong recruiting networks, have been pushing hard to flip the elite prospect, but Johnson has made it clear where his loyalty currently lies. “I’m hearing them out,” he stated, “but ultimately I’m locked in with Texas.” That kind of clarity, especially in today’s recruiting landscape, speaks volumes.
The 6-foot-4, 290-pound defensive standout has been a cornerstone of Texas’s 2025 recruiting class since his commitment earlier this year. His blend of size, strength, and quickness off the line has made him one of the most coveted players in the country. Johnson is not only a disruptive force in the trenches but also a leader on and off the field—something the Longhorns coaching staff has repeatedly praised. His presence adds legitimacy to a Texas recruiting class that is already shaping up to be one of the best in the nation.
That said, the recruiting battle isn’t over. Programs like Florida and Miami aren’t backing down, and their coaching staffs continue to stay in communication with Johnson. Both schools are offering compelling pitches, from early playing time to strong development pipelines and attractive NIL opportunities. For any other recruit, the pressure might be enough to consider a switch, but Johnson appears to be built differently. “It’s flattering to be wanted,” he said, “but I gave my word, and I don’t take that lightly.”
For Texas fans, Johnson’s steadfastness is a positive sign that head coach Steve Sarkisian and his staff are building a culture that players truly buy into. The Longhorns have made major strides in recruiting over the past few cycles, and keeping elite commitments like Johnson’s is a testament to the program’s momentum heading into the 2025 season. The trust between Johnson and the Texas staff appears solid, and he has repeatedly mentioned his strong relationship with defensive line coach Bo Davis as a key factor in his decision.
Still, in the world of college football recruiting, nothing is official until pen meets paper on National Signing Day. Even with Johnson’s verbal commitment and public statements, the Longhorns will need to keep the communication lines open and maintain the connection that initially drew him to Austin. Continued visits, home visits, and strong performance on the field this fall will all play a role in ensuring Johnson stays in burnt orange.
For now, Texas has reason to feel confident. Johnson’s maturity in handling the recruitment process, combined with his vocal commitment to the Longhorns, suggests he’s not easily swayed by hype or pressure. And with programs like Florida and Miami lurking in the background, that kind of composure could make all the difference. If Texas can hold onto Johnson, they won’t just be landing a future defensive star—they’ll be securing a cornerstone piece for the future of their defense.
