Max Johnson explains decision to transfer to Texas A&M, his relationship with Jimbo Fisher
After beginning his collegiate career with the LSU Tigers, Max Johnson is now looking to lead Jimbo Fisher’s Texas A&M Aggies to success.
Ahead of the 2023 campaign, Johnson explained to the media why he made the decision to leave Baton Rouge for College Station, putting an emphasis on his relationship with Fisher when asked.
“Well, there’s a lot that went into consideration, with me and my family. I had about 15 days to make that decision, and you know, Coach Fisher was a big part of it, having a great team, a great offense and a great defense as well,” said the Texas A&M quarterback. “I think the play-makers around me made it special, and you know, the culture of Texas A&M made me want to come here.”
Evidently, it goes back to middle school for Johnson and Fisher, as the relationship has been growing ever since.
“So back in eight grade, I actually went to one of his football camps, and that’s kind of how I started my relationship with him, and being recruited by him when he was at Florida State,” added Johnson. “When he came here, that’s kind of when it transferred over.”
Still, Johnson isn’t being simply handed the starting job, as the talented Conner Weigman is challenging him for the position. A quarterback battle usually comes down to the usual intangibles of the position such as consistency, decision-making, and leadership, as Johnson added.
“I think just consistency, understanding the offense, and making great decisions,” said the former LSU quarterback. “Knowing when to take that shot and, also, when to check it down. I think being able to lead, lead others in a great way, make others around me better.”
“Coach Petrino will make that decision. Or Coach Fisher. But that’s what I’ve been working on,” Johnson said.
As far as what Fisher is looking for, the Texas A&M leader told the media that he wants to see his quarterbacks manage the game and the team well over the summer.
“I just want to see them manage the game. I want to see them manage the team,” Fisher said. “People say I want to see them be a game manager – you’ve gotta be a game manager. That’s the greatest compliment you can have. Then the plays you make out of that, understanding situations.”
Additionally, Fisher said that he wants his quarterbacks to be ‘situational masters’ and make the right play and right decision every time they’re on the field, no matter the situation.
Time will tell whether it’s Max Johnson or Conner Weigman who gets the call for Texas A&M, but either quarterback will have the pressure of expectations placed on their shoulders for 2023.