The South Carolina football team is still awaiting the announcements of a number of players as they mull over the decision to return for another season or take their chances at the next level.
Some, like Kevin Harris, ZaQuandre White, and JJ Enagbare, will be off to the NFL, wrapping up productive college careers in Columbia. Others plan to come back for one final go-round.
One of those players announced his decision today on social media, and it’s an announcement that the South Carolina coaching staff will welcome with open arms.
Veteran linebacker Brad Johnson will be back with the Gamecocks for the 2022 campaign.
Let’s Work . pic.twitter.com/nC9L63Hh56
— Brad Johnson . (@_johnson864) January 3, 2022
Johnson has been with the program since 2017. After dealing with injuries throughout the start of his tenure, he was able to put up career numbers as a senior last season. In the Gamecocks’ new defensive scheme, Johnson totaled personal highs in tackles (74), sacks (4.0), and interceptions.
The 74 tackles were more than he’d recorded in his previous four years combined.
With the NCAA waiving eligibility requirements for the 2019 COVID-affected season, Johnson will have one more year to play. He had previously debated making the jump to the NFL but chose to return in an attempt to improve his draft stock.
The linebacker originally came to South Carolina as a four-star prospect in the 2017 recruiting class. He bounced between outside backer and defensive end over the course of his early career. In 2021, the Palmetto State native was able to settle in in the middle of the Gamecocks’ defense.
Johnson’s production will obviously provide a boost, but his leadership and experience will also be impactful. The defense should continue to be a strength with the linebacker’s return.