10/17/2026
At 6’8”, Deondre Johnson is living proof that a difficult beginning doesn’t have to define your future. ❤️🏈
As a freshman at Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh, New York, Johnson was classified as an at-risk student. But instead of letting that label determine his path, he turned things around and finished high school on the High Honor Roll.
His counselor, Lakeya Stokes, witnessed the transformation firsthand.
“He went from a struggling student to a High Honor Roll one.”
Johnson also became one of the best athletes in New York. During his senior season, he recorded 27 catches for 629 yards and eight touchdowns, helping lead his school to the state championship game.
When signing with Rutgers, he made a statement that meant everything to his family:
“I’m the first in my family to go Division One.”
But his college journey started with disappointment. He played in just one game during his freshman season before redshirting the following year. Two seasons at Rutgers, and only one game played.
Still, Johnson refused to let those setbacks define him.
“What I went through at Rutgers, not playing, helped me learn about football and readjust myself. It actually made me a better person and man.”
He eventually entered the transfer portal, and Jacksonville State came calling. There was just one major concern: the school was 15 hours away from home.
Johnson wasn’t comfortable leaving the only place he knew. But a familiar face from his hometown was making the same visit, and Jacksonville State’s receivers coach reminded him of the high school coach who had helped build his confidence.
That was enough to take the leap.
The move paid off. Last season, Johnson caught 30 passes for 724 yards and six touchdowns, recorded four 100-yard performances, and earned All-Conference honorable mention.
Head coach Charles Kelly believes people sometimes expect too much, too quickly, from a young athlete with Johnson’s size and talent. As he pointed out, Johnson is still growing as a person, too.
This season hasn’t produced the same numbers yet. Through six games, he has 18 receptions for 338 yards and two touchdowns. However, he recently put up 112 receiving yards against Kennesaw State, and Jacksonville State improved to 5–2 with a 27–24 victory over Florida International.
Through all the struggles, the waiting, and the 15 hours separating him from home, Johnson has never lost sight of what matters most.
“I hope to continue to make my family and Newburgh proud.”
Once labeled an at-risk student, he became the first in his family to reach Division I football. His story is about more than being a 6’8” receiver it’s about patience, resilience, and finding the right people who believe in you. ❤️
