Georgia Snags Top Defensive Lineman JJ Johnson, Stuns Miami in Recruiting!

Coral Gables, FL, USA - In a move that has sent ripples through the college football recruiting world, top defensive tackle James „JJ“ Johnson from Northwestern High in Fort Myers, Florida, has committed to the University of Georgia. This announcement, made on July 2, 2025, officially concludes a fierce recruitment battle involving heavyweight programs such as Texas, Florida, and Miami. Johnson, who stands at 6’3″ and weighs 285 pounds, is not just any prospect; he’s been ranked as the No. 1 defensive lineman in the Class of 2026 by On3, even earning a top-15 overall ranking in the same class. As reported by Canes Warning, analysts had already tipped the scales in favor of Georgia before his decision, underscored by On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine that showcased a robust lead for the Bulldogs.

Johnson’s 2024 season statistics were impressive, boasting 60 tackles, 29 tackles for loss, five sacks, and five quarterback hurries over just nine games. Such performance has rightfully made him one of the most coveted recruits this cycle. On his recruitment journey, he visited major programs, including Georgia on May 30, Miami on June 6, Florida on June 13, and Texas on June 20.

Georgia’s Growing Dominance

With Johnson’s commitment, Georgia solidifies its position as the No. 2 team in the 2026 recruiting rankings, according to 247Sports. Their class now boasts an impressive 26 commitments, including one five-star, 19 four-stars, and five three-stars. The team aims to reclaim a top-tier status in college football, and with high-profile recruits like Johnson joining the ranks, they’re certainly on the right track.

In contrast, the Miami Hurricanes, despite their strong program, find themselves ranked No. 9 in the same recruiting snapshot, with a total of 19 commitments, one five-star, 11 four-stars, and seven three-stars. Miami recently brought in 4-star defensive lineman Anthony Kennedy and 4-star EDGE Asharri Charles, who On3 ranks as the No. 25 EDGE nationally for the Class of 2026. However, Miami’s efforts seem overshadowed now by Georgia’s latest catch. In a world where the recruiting game can turn quickly, it’s clear that the Canes have some catching up to do.

National Context

As we look beyond the borders of Florida, college football programs across the nation are reshaping their futures through a surge in recruiting. Notable among them is USC, currently holding the No. 1 spot nationally with 17 ESPN 300 commitments. Following closely are Texas A&M with 13, Notre Dame with 14, and Georgia with 12 commitments, as cited by Freep. Clemson, fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance, is now ranked sixth, showcasing the school’s revitalized recruiting efforts after a rocky season.

With each passing day, the hearts and minds of young athletes are being captured by the allure of college football, and programs like Georgia are reaping the rewards. The stage is set, and as we move through the 2026 recruiting cycle, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both newly committed recruits and the schools vying for future glory.