Alabama LB likes Gamecocks, Tide

Gadsden (Ala.) Litchfield linebacker Jazz Johnson says two schools have emerged as leaders in his recruitment.

“I like South Carolina and Alabama the most right now,” he said. “South Carolina has offered me, but Alabama hasn’t yet. They say they’re still looking at me. They called here last week, and I went to the Oklahoma game, got to meet all the coaches. I had a real fun time there. I’m going back this week for the Kentucky game.

“But South Carolina would probably be on top right now because they offered. I like their coaching staff and defensive style a lot. They also do a good job making sure their players graduate.”

Johnson (6-2, 255, 4.7) also has offers from Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Vanderbilt, Memphis and Southern Miss. In addition to the Crimson Tide, he’s receiving interest from Auburn and LSU.

“I got calls from Alabama, Auburn, South Carolina, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Southern Miss and UAB in the last week,” he said. “None of them really said anything new, just that they’re going to be keeping up with me this season and wanted to make sure I was still interested in them. I told them I’m pretty open right now.”

He grew up an Auburn fan, and the Tigers could make a strong move for his services if a scholarship offer materializes.

“But they haven’t shown as much interest as some of the other ones,” he said. “I was glad they called, though. I hope to go visit there.”

In two games this season, Johnson has recorded 19 tackles and one sack. He had more than 100 tackles as a junior.

Academically, he maintains a 2.6 GPA and is two points shy of qualifying. He plans to take the ACT again in October.