New Jersey cornerback has SU on his mind

If there is one thing that is obvious about SU's recruiting this year, it's that they are looking to seriously upgrade their speed and numbers at the DB positions. Reuben Johnson fits that mold and he took time to talk to Syracusefan.com about his recruitment and SU.

At 5-foot-9, Winslow Township (N.J.) cornerback Reuben Johnson may not be very tall, but he’s short neither on words or talent. Syracusefan.com was fortunate enough to catch up with the personable Cuse target for his thoughts on his recruitment, SU and his playing style.

“They’re a program on the come-up,” said Johnson, who has a variety of offers including Tennessee, Boston College, Michigan State, UConn, Kentucky and others. “It’s a good program and a program I could definitely see myself playing at.”

Whoever does get Johnson will get quite a playmaker. Last year he rushed for 500 yards and seven touchdowns, intercepted seven passes – returning two for scores – returned a kick for a touchdown and racked up more tackles and pass breakups than he can recall. He also runs a 4.4 40 and has the perfect mentality for a defensive back.

“I’m a competitor. I won’t back down from anybody. I don’t care if you’re the No. 1 player in the country. Hard work beats talent that doesn’t work,” he said.

He’s being recruited to SU by assistant coach Jim Salgado

“We talk here and there and we text here and there,” Johnson said.

Johnson does not have any visits planned any probably won’t be making an early decision. He said he’ll likely take a trip to Syracuse to see if it meets his criteria

“I definitely want a school where you can get a good education, coaches who care about the players and will check up and make sure you’re doing well in class,” he said. “A good school, a good atmosphere …. [Also,] I want to play early. But if it’s in my best interest to redshirt as a freshman, I will.”

Johnson doesn’t have a particular conference he wants to play in, and isn’t dead set on one particular region, though he wouldn’t mind staying somewhat close to home.

“All conferences are good. You see what happened with Boise State and Oklahoma? Any conference is good,” he said. “I’d like to stay close to new Jersey, but if the ball falls off the court, I’ve got to go get it.”

Similarly, SU’s staff is hoping they’ll be able to get Johnson. Syracusefan.com will keep you informed on Johnson's recruiting progress.