Dillon Johnson, a former standout at St. Joseph Catholic School, remains the smiling, charming, self-assured young man he was when he was out breaking high school records and winning state championships just a few years ago.
Johnson, now entering his junior season as a running back at Mississippi State, has always dreamed big. And, those big dreams continue.
If Johnson plays well enough for the Bulldogs this fall, he said he might be ready to jump to the NFL. He has seen some early projections that have him drafted in the third through fifth rounds
“This likely will be my last year, if I can just stay healthy,” he said. “Last year, I had a great year but I did not show my full potential because I was injured.”
Johnson suffered a high ankle sprain in the third game against Memphis last season. He also suffered an MCl sprain and a grade 2 AC separated shoulder during the season.
“I was hurt most of the season, but I did not miss any games. They tried to make me sit out a game, but I cried so much that they said I could play.”
In his first two seasons, Johnson has shown steady progression at Mississippi State. Once again, he is expected to share the majority of snaps with fellow running back Jo’Quavious Marks.
“I love splitting time with Jo’Quavious. We each push each other to be better players, and we each are going to push each other to be better this year.”
Johnson rushed for 225 yards his freshman year, and nearly doubled that with 485 yards rushing last year as a sophomore where he also had 422 receiving yards.
But, more importantly to Johnson, his rushing average went from 4.4 in 2020 to 5.4 last year.
“I am definitely a stronger and faster athlete than I was when I came to Starkville,” he said. “I have yet to show my full potential and that is really exciting and it is why I am looking forward to the season so much.”
Johnson’s most important goal is to help his team win.
“I have a great relationship with our quarterback Will Rogers.
“Will is a great leader for our team, and I expect to catch a lot of passes from him.”
No matter where the game of football takes him or how high his star rises, Johnson will always remember his Greenville roots. This summer he has been spending as much time with friends and family that he can.
“Once the season starts, I won’t be able to make it home as much but I will always have Greenville in my heart,” he said.
Johnson’s Bulldogs begin their season Sept. 3 at home against Memphis.
