Michigan football: Will Johnson ranked as a top 40 player in college football

Will Johnson is one of the best defensive backs in the Big Ten, and perhaps even the entire nation. For Michigan football, which aims to claim its first national title since the 1997 season, Johnson is a cornerstone of the Wolverines’ impeccable defensive unit, which is expected to lead the way for the Maize and Blue this fall. In preparation for the 2023 season, the ON3 Network released its list of the top 100 players in college football, with Will Johnson ranking among the top 40 players in the game, coming in at No. 35.

Will Johnson ranked as the No. 35 player in college football by ON3

According to these new preseason rankings, several Maize and Blue standouts have been identified as top performers for the upcoming year. The highest-ranked Wolverine in these rankings is Blake Corum, who comes in at No. 14. There are a few other notable names sprinkled throughout the remaining top 100.

Will Johnson, a former five-star cornerback commit from the 2022 Michigan football recruiting class, was highly anticipated as a top prospect for the Maize and Blue. Great things were expected of Johnson during his true freshman year in 2022; fortunately for the Wolverines, Johnson’s talent became evident early on as he received ample playing time in his first few games. By the end of the season, it was clear that this true freshman standout defensive back was destined for greatness in Ann Arbor.

As he enters his second season of college football, Will Johnson is regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the nation, ranking just behind names like Kalen King (Penn State) and other elite NFL Draft prospects.

A standout freshman year could turn into much more in 2023 for this Michigan football star cornerback

During his true freshman year with Michigan football, Will Johnson appeared in all 14 of the Wolverines’ games, recording a total of 27 tackles, three interceptions, and six passes defended. Additionally, Johnson’s exceptional performance earned him All-American honors from Pro Football Focus, The Athletic, and 247 Sports.

As Will Johnson and the Michigan Wolverines shift their focus to 2023, the Maize and Blue are determined to defend their position at the top of the Big Ten. This fall, the Wolverines have a chance to secure their third consecutive Big Ten title and potentially make another run at the College Football Playoff, with aspirations of winning the national championship.

One thing is certain: Will Johnson and Michigan football possess all the necessary tools to thrive throughout the 2023 college football season. Now, it’s time for the Wolverines to reestablish themselves as a premier program in the sport as they have been in years past.

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