In a significant addition to BYU’s 2026 recruiting class, defensive back Antonio Johnson has officially committed to the Cougars. The Fort Worth, Texas native made his announcement via social media, expressing gratitude to his family, coaches, and faith for guiding his journey. Johnson’s commitment marks the 10th pledge in BYU’s 2026 class and adds another promising athlete to a growing list of defensive standouts.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 190 pounds, Johnson brings an ideal frame for a modern defensive back. His length and athleticism make him a versatile asset in the secondary, capable of matching up against tall receivers and tight ends. Johnson also has a background in track and field, showcasing his speed and explosiveness with impressive marks in the triple jump and long jump. His athletic profile suggests he has the tools to develop into a high-impact player at the collegiate level.
Johnson’s recruitment journey was relatively under the radar, with offers from programs like UTEP, Texas State, and Sacramento State. However, BYU’s coaching staff, particularly defensive coordinator Jay Hill and defensive backs coach Jernaro Gilford, saw something special in him. Known for identifying and developing under-recruited talent, Hill and Gilford have built a reputation for molding raw athletes into polished defenders. Johnson fits that mold perfectly.
His official visit to Provo was a turning point. Johnson described the experience as transformative, noting the welcoming atmosphere, the strong sense of community, and the alignment of values between himself and the program. He felt an immediate connection with the coaching staff and current players, especially those from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which helped him envision a future at BYU. The visit solidified his decision, and he didn’t hesitate to commit.
Johnson’s commitment is more than just a win on the recruiting trail—it’s a testament to BYU’s evolving identity as a program that blends athletic excellence with personal development. Johnson emphasized his faith and family in his announcement, thanking his mother and giving credit to his belief in God for helping him reach this milestone. That alignment with BYU’s mission and culture makes him a natural fit both on and off the field.
On the football side, Johnson is expected to play safety, where his size and range can be fully utilized. He’ll likely need to add muscle and refine his technique, but the foundation is there. His ability to high-point the ball, make contested plays, and cover ground quickly gives him a high ceiling. Coaches believe he can compete for playing time early in his career, especially given his work ethic and coachability.
With Johnson on board, BYU continues to build a defense that prioritizes length, speed, and versatility. His commitment also sends a message to other recruits: BYU is a place where talent is recognized, developed, and celebrated. For Johnson, it’s the beginning of a new chapter. For BYU, it’s another step toward building a formidable future.
