On300 RB Donovan Johnson commits to Michigan: "It's a perfect fit"

On300 Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy running back Donovan Johnson gave Michigan a verbal commitment shortly following his recent unofficial visit.

Johnson picked U-M over offers from Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, USC and several other major programs.

“It feels great,” Johnson said. “It’s the people, the atmosphere and the coaching staff. You can’t go wrong with Michigan as a running back. Coach (Tony) Alford is my favorite running back coach out of everybody. He’s been recruiting me for a long time. I met Coach (Sherrone) Moore for the first time, and we kicked it off. I love what he’s done with the Michigan program. There were nothing but friendly faces on my visit there. I love everything about them.”

Johnson felt at home at Michigan on his first visit.

Just days after leaving campus, Johnson picked up the phone and called Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore and running backs coach Tony Alford on Saturday evening and informed them of his decision.

“I loved the atmosphere,” Johnson said. “I got to know all of the coaches 1-on-1. I sat down and talked to the coaches for 30 minutes. When I went on other visits, the atmosphere wasn’t really there. I felt like I was already a part of the program. The players showed me that it’s a brotherhood. Me being from IMG, we preach brotherhood. I felt like a brother. It’s a perfect fit.”

Alford played a huge role in landing Johnson. After all, Alford recruited Johnson hard during his time at Ohio State and made Johnson a top priority soon after arriving in Ann Arbor.

“He got to know me on a personal level,” Johnson said. “He got to know my family. He talks to me about more than football. I’ve been on many visits and met many coaches, but his coaching style is very different. The discipline he holds on his student-athletes to stands out. He’s a student of the game. He’s able to adapt his coaching style based on the player. He’s just a really good coach overall. He’s very genuine.”

Johnson added that he sees himself as a great in Michigan’s run heavy scheme.

“They are a run-first team,” Johnson said. “You can’t go wrong with that. I can do the pass blocking. I’m a downhill runner, but I can catch the ball. I think I’m going to fit right in. I love the offense. I feel like it fits me to a T.”

Overall, Johnson, the No. 15 running back and No. 239 overall prospect nationally, is thrilled to be part of Moore’s first recruiting class the head coach at the University of Michigan.

“I’m excited,” Johnson said. “Some people think we’re in a rebuild phase, but I feel like Coach Moore is going to get it done. As a 2025 class member, it’s an honor. It’s an honor to be coached by Coach Moore and Coach Tony.”