FAU picks up in-state linebacker

Pompano Beach (Fla.) Blanche Ely inside linebacker Conard Johnson had options, but he ultimately decided to stay home for his college career.

"I committed to FAU today," Johnson said. "I talked to a lot of schools like UConn and the University of Tulsa, but I want to stay home and play in front of my family."

The three-star linebacker said that his future head coach is a major reason he opted for the Owls.

"I love Coach (Howard) Schnellenberger down there, the head coach," Johnson said. "There is a lot of history about him. He used to be over at the University of Miami. He won a National Championship there. He is rebuilding the program at FAU. They got a new stadium down there that they just built. I want to be a part of that atmosphere and everything."

The 5-foot-11, 220-pound backer also believes he can make his way on campus and contribute immediately.

"I have a chance to compete for early playing time and a chance to start my freshman year," Johnson said.

Johnson is scheduled to visit FAU on January 14th for an official visit. At this time, he intends for that to be his only visit.

"I am done with everything," Johnson said. "I am solid. I am done with all of this recruiting thing."

On his senior season, Johnson said he recorded 170 tackles, 100 solo tackles, 10 sacks, eight forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries for a touchdown, and an interception for a touchdown.