Alabama DB commits to South Carolina football for the 2026 recruiting class.

Gamecocks Land Versatile Alabama DB KJ Johnson for 2026 Class

South Carolina football made headlines on June 9, 2025, when three-star defensive back Kejiaun “KJ” Johnson announced his commitment to the Gamecocks, choosing Columbia over a competitive field of suitors. Hailing from Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama, Johnson brings a blend of length, athleticism, and playmaking ability to a South Carolina secondary that has already added strong pieces to its 2026 recruiting class. His pledge not only bolsters the defensive backroom but also signals the continued upward trajectory of head coach Shane Beamer’s recruiting efforts .

KJ Johnson measures in at a prototypical 6-foot-2 and 170 pounds, possessing the size and range coveted at both cornerback and safety positions . During his junior campaign at Woodlawn, Johnson compiled 27 total tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss, added an interception, and forced a fumble, showcasing his ball-hawking instincts and willingness to support in run defense . His combination of length and ball skills earned him a designation as the No. 38 cornerback nationally and the No. 15 prospect in Alabama per On3’s composite rankings .

The commitment came just days after Johnson’s official visit to South Carolina on May 30, during which the rising defensive playmaker connected with coaches and current Gamecock players. “OV was great,” Johnson told GamecockCentral. “The players really caught my attention, just how they interact with me. They’re very genuine, not too Hollywood. It was just a great visit and a great place to be” . Defensive backs coach Torrian Gray’s aggressive, press-man style seemed to resonate particularly well, as Johnson praised Gray’s approach to teaching technique and emphasizing playmaking opportunities.

Johnson’s recruitment featured offers from a slate of Southeastern Conference and Power Five programs, including Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Arkansas, Texas Tech, and West Virginia . Among those suitors, South Carolina’s swift engagement and Beamer’s flagship “#WelcomeHome” social media campaign helped crystallize Johnson’s decision . Reports indicate that the decision was made quietly shortly after his visit, with Johnson only revealing his plans publicly a week later, underscoring his desire to make a thoughtful, well-informed choice.

Johnson becomes the second defensive back to commit to the Gamecocks’ 2026 class, following in the footsteps of J’Zavien Currence, who pledged last October . Currence, a standout from South Pointe High in Rock Hill, South Carolina, brings complementary strengths in coverage and tackling, setting the stage for Johnson to slot in as either an outside cornerback or a hybrid safety, depending on scheme adjustments . With the Grove class also featuring versatile defenders such as the twin Carter brothers from North Carolina, the secondary room promises depth and competition from the moment spring practices commence.

On3’s most recent class rankings placed South Carolina’s haul at 15th nationally in the 2026 cycle, marking one of the highest finishes under Beamer’s tenure and hinting at the program’s rising recruiting stock . Should the Gamecocks maintain momentum through the summer evaluation period and recruit commitments at key skill positions, they stand poised to crack the top ten for the first time since 2009—a remarkable achievement in just Beamer’s fifth season at the helm .

Johnson’s developmental trajectory mirrors that of many successful SEC defensive backs who possess the frame to press receivers at the line and the instincts to read and react in zone coverage. His 6-2 frame affords him the reach to contest catches on the outside, while his speed and fluidity allow him to split the hashes or drop into residual coverage against emerging college-style offenses. Woodlawn’s defensive scheme under coach Torrian Gray Jr. emphasized versatility, tasking Johnson with both press-man matchups and deep safety rotation, thereby preparing him for a seamless transition to the SEC’s physical and faster-paced play .

Beamer, now entering his fifth season, underscored the significance of Johnson’s commitment during his May “#WelcomeHome” announcement, praising the Birmingham native’s maturity and readiness to embrace Gamecock traditions . The head coach highlighted Johnson’s character, academic standing, and leadership potential—factors that weighed heavily alongside on-field metrics during the evaluation process. By securing Johnson early in the summer evaluation window, South Carolina also sent a message to other coveted defensive back targets that the secondary room is a welcoming and prioritized position.

As South Carolina continues to flesh out its 2026 class, attention now turns to other impact prospects still available on the board. Elite quarterback Landon Duckworth of Jackson, Alabama, looms as the next high-priority target, with pro-style quarterbacks being scarce commodities in the cycle . Additionally, the Gamecocks are expected to intensify efforts at wide receiver, tight end, and edge rusher, aiming to establish a balanced class capable of contributing early and competing immediately for starting roles.

From a program development standpoint, Johnson’s commitment carries weight beyond the talent acquisition. It reinforces South Carolina’s recruiting footprint in Alabama—a state rich with defensive back talent, yet traditionally a repository for in-state programs like Alabama and Auburn. By demonstrating the capacity to draw top-prospect interest away from rival SEC brands, the Gamecocks enhance their brand equity and showcase the appeal of Columbia as a destination for both football excellence and academic opportunity .

Looking ahead to summer camp, Johnson will join a defensive back room anchored by veterans and bolstered by fellow newcomers. The internal competition is likely to accelerate developmental progress, with early enrollees vying for meaningful roles as nickel corner or rotational safety. Johnson’s frame and skill set suggest a redshirt is unlikely; rather, his immediate contributions in sub-packages and special teams could lay the groundwork for a freshman season featuring rotational snaps and critical special teams assignments.

Beyond the gridiron, Johnson’s era at South Carolina begins on campus this July, where he’ll engage with academic advisors and strength coaches to acclimate to college life and training regimens. The Gamecock academic support infrastructure, which emphasizes balance between athletic and academic pursuits, will assist Johnson in his coursework and ensure NCAA eligibility requirements are met without compromise. Early feedback from current players indicates the program’s commitment to holistic development—an aspect that Johnson cited as influential in his decision .

For fans, Johnson’s pledge is an exciting harbinger of defensive prowess to come. His recruiting film highlights show an instinctive playmaker, comfortable in coverage and aggressive in run-support situations. As South Carolina’s defense evolves under coordinator Clayton White, Johnson’s versatility may enable schematic creativity, such as hybrid safety-corner rotations that confuse opposing quarterbacks and allow rapid adjustments post-snap. Gamecock defenses over the past two seasons have shown marked improvement against spread-oriented offenses; Johnson’s arrival arguably accelerates this trend by adding depth and talent to the secondary.

In summary, Kejiaun “KJ” Johnson’s commitment to South Carolina represents both a significant win in the 2026 recruiting cycle and a testament to the program’s growing national reach. His size, production, and intangibles align with the Gamecock model of physical, smart, and versatile defensive backs capable of immediate impact. As the class progresses toward National Signing Day, Johnson stands as a cornerstone recruit whose contributions will help shape the future identity of South Carolina’s defense under Shane Beamer. The garnet and black faithful have every reason to be optimistic: a new wave of talent, embodied by Johnson’s pledge, is ready to take the field in Columbia.