re: 2019 Football Recruiting Thread - Auburn Goes 4/7 & Land Brothers

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Auburn defensive line coach has a track record of closing on National Signing Day. That’s exactly what happened with 3-star defensive lineman Caleb Johnson.

The 3-star prospect from Northside High School in Columbus, Ga., had interest in Auburn throughout his entire process. Dating back to the fall, Johnson had the Tigers in a top group with Tennessee and Georgia.

Garner never made a major push for Johnson until late in the recruiting cycle. Johnson visited for several games throughout the season, which is when Auburn revved up its efforts for the defensive lineman. Johnson left with a major impression after the Iron Bowl and doubled down on that following his Jan. 26 official visit.

On Wednesday, Johnson capped it off by committed to Auburn. He’s the 24th commitment in this class.

“Just getting to know the whole coaching staff instead of just Coach [Rodney] Garner and hanging out with more than just Derrick Brown, hanging out with more players on the team. Just making those close bonds,” Johnson said after his official visit. “This late in the recruiting process, that’s what it’s really about to me, that family thing. They just kind of told me their philosophy and vision. It stood out to me.”

Johnson had strong interest from Florida and Georgia, as well, the two other programs he officially visited.

It’s tough to make a position projection for Johnson. He was originally listed as an outside linebacker, but at 267 pounds, he’s already close to lining up as a down lineman. His position listing has since changed to defensive end. If he continues this trajectory of growth, he’s likely to turn into a defensive tackle by the time his college career comes to a close.

Johnson is ranked the No. 28 weakside defensive end in the country and the No. 580 overall prospect.

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