BREAKING: 3-Star Cornerback Derrick Johnson II Commits to Oklahoma Sooners, Rejecting Texas Tech, TCU, and Arkansas
In a major recruiting win for Oklahoma football, 3-star cornerback Derrick Johnson II has officially committed to the Oklahoma Sooners, choosing Norman over strong offers from Texas Tech, TCU, and Arkansas. The announcement came Friday evening, sending ripples across the college football recruiting landscape as the Sooners continue to build one of the most promising defensive classes in the country.
Johnson, a standout defensive back from Duncanville High School in Texas, made his decision public through a social media post featuring the Sooners’ crimson and cream colors and the caption: “Home is where champions are made. I’m a Sooner!” The commitment marks another recruiting victory for head coach Brent Venables and defensive backs coach Jay Valai, both of whom have made defensive depth and speed a top priority for the 2026 class.
Standing at 6 feet 0 inches and weighing 180 pounds, Johnson is widely regarded for his impressive coverage instincts, smooth footwork, and physical play at the line of scrimmage. His versatility allows him to play both man and zone schemes effectively, and scouts have noted his ability to anticipate routes and close on the ball with aggression. According to On3 Sports, Johnson ranks among the top 60 cornerbacks nationally and one of the top 100 overall players in the state of Texas.
Speaking with reporters after his announcement, Johnson said Oklahoma’s defensive philosophy and coaching staff were the deciding factors in his choice.
> “Coach Venables and Coach Valai showed me from day one that Oklahoma is about more than football—it’s about family, discipline, and development,” Johnson said. “They believe in me, and I believe in what they’re building. I want to be part of that foundation.”
The Sooners’ defense has seen remarkable improvement under Venables, who has emphasized speed, tackling fundamentals, and aggressive coverage. Johnson’s addition strengthens an already talented defensive back group that includes recent commitments from four-star safeties and versatile nickel backs. His pledge also provides a recruiting boost as Oklahoma prepares for its full transition into the SEC, where elite defensive play will be crucial.
Recruiting analysts say Johnson’s commitment is significant not only for Oklahoma’s 2026 class but also for its presence in Texas—a key recruiting battleground.
> “Oklahoma beating out Texas Tech, TCU, and Arkansas for a Texas-based defensive back shows the Sooners are maintaining strong recruiting ties in the Lone Star State,” said recruiting analyst Tom Luginbill. “Johnson fits exactly what Venables wants: high-IQ defenders who play fast and physical.”
With Johnson now on board, the Sooners’ 2026 class climbs higher in national rankings and continues to reflect Venables’ defensive identity. As Oklahoma fans celebrate the latest commitment, attention will soon turn to other key defensive targets expected to make decisions in the coming months.
For now, Derrick Johnson II’s choice to don the crimson and cream adds another chapter to Oklahoma’s proud defensive tradition — and another reason for Sooners fans to be excited abou
t the program’s future.
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