New Michigan Man: 2018 LB Antwuan Johnson Commits

In a surprising move, one of Ohio’s top players in the 2018 class, Springfield (OH) LB Antwuan Johnson has committed to Michigan.

Johnson is a stout, middle linebacker that fits the mold of a MIKE backer to a T. He is thick, strong, athletic linebacker that can fill the gaps and make plays in both the run and passing game. On top of making smart plays, he can also lay the wood when given the opportunity. With some more time in the weight room and with top coaches, he could be a star.

As for his recruiting, this came just a week after visiting Michigan for the first time for spring practice. I caught up with him just minutes after his commitment to see what the main factors in his decision.

“Parents and family we all think Michigan was a great fit and I love what Coach Harbaugh is doing and I feel like I can be apart of the change that is about to take place in Ann Arbor,” Johnson said.

Though most believed he would end up staying in-state and committing to Ohio State, this is a big pickup for Michigan and win for Harbaugh on the trail even though has yet extend an offer. Hanging on to him throughout could be a little tough as he’s one of the top players in the entire class.

  • Height: 6’2”
  • Weight: 218lbs
  • Hometown (School): Springfield, OH (Springfield)
  • Notable Offers: Louisville, Kentucky
  • Rankings: Scout (NR) – Rivals (NR) – 247Sports (4*, #82 overall) – ESPN (NR)


As for the Rest of the Class: Johnson is the first commit in the 2018 class and may start a bit of a run in the next couple months. Michigan is in great shape with his teammate DE/TE Leonard Taylor, Westville (OH) RB Jaelen Gill, Paramus Catholic (NJ) QB Allan Walters, Bishop Gorman (NV) QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Providence (FL) WR Will Mallory and Oak Park (MI) OG/DT Marquan McCall.

Other names Johnson said he’s planning to go after includes Fairfield (OH) OT Jackson Carman and Wayne (OH) WR L’Christian Smith.

Photo Credit: Melanie Maxwell | The Ann Arbor News

Garrett Fishaw