Former UCLA linebacker Caleb Johnson tweeted on Thursday afternoon he will announce his transfer destination on Friday at 3:00 PM Pacific time. Johnson visited Texas over the weekend and is reportedly deciding between the Hurricanes and Longhorns. The Miami football program has not added a transfer LB this offseason.
Linebacker is arguably the biggest position of need for Miami in 2022. Miami has added two offensive linemen and four defensive linemen to the 2022 roster. The Hurricanes have had inconsistent LB play since losing Michael Pinckney and Shaq Quarterman following the 2019 season.
Johnson had 89 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, two interceptions, three pass breakups and a fumble recovery in two seasons at UCLA. The Bruins signed Johnson out of Fullerton College in Murrieta, California as the 45th ranked junior college prospect and second-rated inside LB in 2020.
Johnson was originally committed to Texas as a JUCO transfer. Miami is expected to have the edge in a commitment for Johnson. The inconsistency Miami has had at LB in the last two seasons provides Johnson with a chance to compete immediately to be a starter. Johnson started 17 of the 18 games he played in two seasons at UCLA.
https://twitter.com/CalebJohnsun/status/1517215708278452224?s=20&t=WHEcaxYTFoTUODlY_wRmsQ
Johnson has had a quick turnaround since announcing his entry into the transfer portal last week. Transfers have until May 1 to make a decision and have immediate eligibility. Players who make their transfer decisions after May 1 have to petition the NCAA for a waiver to gain immediate eligibility.
Johnson is potentially one of four transfers who could start for Miami on defense. Mitchell Agude who was a teammate of Johnson at UCLA will likely start for Miami at defensive end. Cornerback Darryl Porter Jr. and DE Akheem Mesidor are also projected starters for the Miami football team in 2022.
Mario Cristobal has quickly utilized the transfer portal to upgrade the depth and talent on the Miami football roster. Miami will likely remain busy in the transfer portal through the May 1 deadline. Expect Miami to pursue another LB and potentially more help on the defensive and offensive lines.