FSU offers Georgia athlete, Noles now No. 1
NASHVILLE, Ga. — What a weekend it was for Ja'Marquis Johnson, a 2020 athlete out of Berrien County. The talented sophomore plays quarterback and safety for his high school team and after receiving a surprise invitation to visit Florida State late last week, he was offered by the Seminoles on the visit.
Florida State is the second school to offer, but they definitely won't be the last. Southern Miss offered him first in January and the word is starting to leak out about the versatile athlete.
"This was my first college visit ever, and it all happened so fast, so I was very surprised," said Johnson. "Coach [Harlon] Barnett, the defensive backs coach there offered me towards the end of the visit. I was shocked.
"He talked to me about how I am on the right path and I couldn't believe it. Having an offer from a school like Florida State is exciting and I am just ready for the recruiting ride now."
During his time in Tallahassee, Johnson got to see much of the campus and facilities, he met many of the coaches, including head coach Willie Taggert and a few things really stood out to him.
"The coaching staff was great and I really love those guys. They have great personalities, they are fun to be around and I had a good time around them.
"I also liked the stadium and just the environment. My first visit there was a great one."
The recruiting process is truly just beginning for this talented athlete. He was offered by Florida State to play safety and he is fine with that. He loves to have the ball in his hands, but the offer to play defense in the ACC definitely did not hurt Florida State with Johnson.
"Florida State is No. 1 in my mind right now," said Johnson. "I had a great time and I want to visit them again. The offer, the coaches and all the whole visit just has Florida State up there for me."
Johnson grew up a fan of Alabama. He wants to hear from the Crimson Tide, Clemson, Georgia and Miami among others. Of course, he welcomes all offers. He is looking forward to what comes next.
"I am excited about hearing what other schools may like me and who may want to offer me. I just went on my first visit and now I am probably going to be attending my first college game this fall. I am just excited to see what comes next."
