The Texas Longhorns made it clear early in the 2026 recruiting cycle that bolstering their defensive front was a top priority-and they backed that up with action. One of the biggest statements came this summer when they flipped four-star defensive tackle James Johnson out of Miami (Fla.)
Northwestern from the Georgia Bulldogs. And now, it’s official: Johnson has signed with Texas.
This wasn’t just a win-it was a major recruiting coup. Johnson initially committed to Kirby Smart and Georgia after a whirlwind summer of official visits, which included stops at Florida, Florida State, and Miami.
Texas got the final visit, and while Johnson gave his verbal to the Bulldogs shortly after, Steve Sarkisian and defensive line coach Kenny Baker didn’t back off. They stayed aggressive, kept the communication going, and ultimately convinced Johnson to make the switch to Austin.
At 6’2.5” and 285 pounds, Johnson brings a rare combination of size, power, and explosiveness to the middle of the defensive line. He’s not just a space-eater-he’s a disruptor.
Ranked as the top interior defensive lineman in Florida and the No. 9 defensive lineman nationally, Johnson is the kind of player who can change the tone of a game from the inside out. He’s also the 87th-ranked overall prospect in the country, per the 247Sports Composite rankings, and his offer list reads like a who’s who of college football powerhouses: Alabama, LSU, Michigan, USC, Oklahoma, Penn State, and more.
What stands out on Johnson’s tape is how violent he is at the point of attack. He plays with heavy hands and a relentless motor, consistently driving offensive linemen backward and shedding blocks with authority.
His initial burst off the line is impressive for a player his size, and he’s got the kind of raw strength that makes him a problem for any offensive front. Whether he's collapsing the pocket or blowing up run plays before they start, Johnson brings a level of physicality that jumps off the screen.
Yes, there are areas to refine-he can play a bit high at times-but his natural power often makes up for it. You’ll see him ragdoll blockers and toss them aside like they're bags of laundry. That kind of brute strength, paired with his quickness and ability to change direction in pursuit, makes him a nightmare matchup in the trenches.
Perhaps most importantly, Johnson is the type of interior lineman who demands attention. He’s going to draw double-teams, which opens things up for the rest of the defense. And if he continues to develop-taking to coaching, staying focused-he’s got the tools to be a difference-maker at the next level.
This is a foundational piece for Texas. In a recruiting cycle where trench talent was a clear focus, landing Johnson sends a message: the Longhorns are serious about building a defense that can compete with the best in the country.