4-star safety Rashad Johnson highlights reasons that nudged him toward Kirby Smart’s Georgia

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jul 15, 2024 12:49 GMT

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Rashad Johnson, a highly sought-after four-star safety from Bushnell, Florida, has committed to the Georgia Bulldogs. Johnson selected Georgia over other programs, including Penn State, Louisville and Texas A&M. This decision strengthens the Bulldogs' 2025 recruiting class. They rank third in the nation, just behind Alabama and Ohio State.

Johnson, who had over 20 offers and took official visits to several schools, ultimately felt Georgia was the best fit for him.

"Out of all of my schools, Georgia fit me the best," Johnson shared with On3. "I felt the most comfortable at Georgia and with the Georgia coaches. I love the coaches, the fit into the defense, how the defensive scheme fits me and Georgia’s style of play. It was just the right place for me."

Under the leadership of Kirby Smart, Georgia has secured two national championships and seen 49 players drafted by NFL teams since 2020. The competitive environment attracted Johnson, who's ranked as the No. 32 safety in the country, per On3.

"Georgia is a tough place to play. It is not easy there and I like that. I have to work and compete at Georgia. They will push me and I can’t wait for that. I think my skills fit what Georgia is looking for and I am ready to work with the coaches," Johnson added.

Georgia expressed interest in Rashad Johnson early in the year. By late spring, he had risen on their recruitment list, and after showcasing his skills at Georgia’s camp and running a 40-yard dash in 4.51 seconds, he received an offer.

"Georgia has always been a school toward the top of my list. It is a top program that I have had an interest in for a long time," Johnson said.

Rashad Johnson finds his perfect fit with Georgia Bulldogs

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 200 pounds, Rashad Johnson is the 24th-ranked safety nationally and the 33rd overall player in Florida, according to 247Sports.

At South Sumter High School, Johnson recorded 59 tackles, seven pass breakups, and an interception last season, while also contributing offensively with nine catches for 209 yards and three touchdowns.

The Bulldogs' defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann initially visited Johnson in the spring, and coach Travaris Robinson took over his recruitment. Their relationship played a significant role in Johnson’s decision.

"T-Rob coached my cousin (Keonu O’Neal) at Florida, so I know a lot about him and he is a great coach,” Johnson said. “We have really grown closer over the past month and my relationship is strong with him."

Rashad Johnson camped and officially visited Georgia in June before committing to their 2025 class. He believes Georgia offers the best long-term development.

“You’re being coached by the best at what they do. That’s the best place that is going to develop me. Georgia is a safety school. It’s the standard,” Johnson told DawgsHQ.

Johnson feels a strong connection with Georgia’s physical style of play.

"My school is the same way, we’re a very hard-hitting team,” Johnson said. “Going into my college career and I’m going through the same program, it’s easier for me to fit in."

With Rashad Johnson's commitment, the Bulldogs' class of 2025 now includes 20 commits, joining fellow four-star safety Jaylan Morgan.