Will Johnson’s parents, Deon Johnson and Kafi Kumasi are residents of Detroit, Michigan, United States.
Will Johnson has emerged as one of college football’s most dominant cornerbacks, carrying forward a proud family tradition at the University of Michigan.
The Detroit native, born on March 29, 2003, has established himself as a defensive powerhouse for the Wolverines.
Johnson’s journey began at Grosse Pointe South High School, where he showcased his exceptional talents as both a defensive player and offensive contributor.
His remarkable high school career included 45 tackles, an interception, and 12 pass breakups on defense while accumulating 1,302 all-purpose yards on offense.
As a five-star recruit and the top-ranked player in Michigan, Johnson committed to the University of Michigan in February 2021, following in his father’s footsteps.
At Michigan, Johnson’s impact was immediate and substantial. In his freshman season, he appeared in all 14 games, recording 27 tackles and three interceptions.
His sophomore year proved even more impressive, as he allowed only 17 receptions on 321 coverage snaps and secured four interceptions.
The highlight of his career came during the 2023 national championship game, where his crucial interception of Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. helped secure the title and earned him the National Championship Defensive MVP Award.
His junior season showcased further growth, including two interception returns for touchdowns, making him the first player in Michigan football history to return three career interceptions for touchdowns despite being limited by injuries.
Will Johnson’s Journey Reflects His Family’s Emphasis on Both Athletics and Academics
Behind Will Johnson’s success stands a remarkable family foundation. His father, Deon Johnson, played cornerback for the Michigan Wolverines in the 1990s, establishing a legacy that would later inspire his son.
Deon’s influence extends beyond their shared alma mater, as he actively contributes to developing young talent through his involvement with the Sound Mind Sound Body (SMSB) Football Academy in Detroit.
His guidance and experience have been instrumental in shaping Will’s approach to the game.
Will’s mother, Kafi Kumasi, brings a different but equally valuable dimension to his life.
As a professor at Wayne State University, she emphasizes the importance of academic excellence alongside athletic achievement.
Her role in keeping Will grounded while managing the pressures of being a top athlete has been crucial to his development both on and off the field.
The combination of Deon’s athletic legacy and Kafi’s academic influence has created a balanced foundation for Will’s success.
The family’s bond extends beyond mere support, as evidenced by their active engagement in Will’s career.
Deon frequently shares his pride in his son’s achievements on social media, while Kafi maintains a close relationship with Will, often celebrating his milestones and accomplishments.
This strong family dynamic has played a pivotal role in Will’s decision-making, including his commitment to Michigan and his continued dedication to excellence in both athletics and academics.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- He entered his junior season ranked as the best cornerback in college football for the 2024 season, with predictions of being an early first-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
- He earned a composite ranking as the No. 15 ranked high school football player in the country in the 2022 college football recruiting class by 247Sports.
- He was one of the first Michigan recruits to benefit from the new rule, which allowed players to be compensated for the use of their name, image, and likeness (NIL).
