Former Auburn Running Back Kerryon Johnson to Coach RBs at East Tennessee State
Former Auburn University standout running back Kerryon Johnson is making a significant career shift, moving from player to coach. After a successful college career and a brief stint in the NFL, Johnson has officially transitioned into the coaching world, accepting a position as the running backs coach at East Tennessee State University (ETSU).
This is a huge step for Johnson, who has always been passionate about the game of football and, specifically, about helping the next generation of players. His move to ETSU brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and mentorship to a program that will greatly benefit from his unique perspective as both a former elite college player and an NFL veteran.
Kerryon Johnson’s College Football Legacy
Kerryon Johnson’s time at Auburn University is marked by both individual accolades and team success. Playing for the Tigers from 2015 to 2017, Johnson became one of Auburn’s most dynamic and talented running backs in recent history. He was known for his hard-nosed running style, vision, and ability to make plays in critical situations.
Johnson’s breakout season came in 2017, when he led the SEC in rushing touchdowns and helped Auburn secure a spot in the SEC Championship Game. He was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Year that season and finished his career with over 3,400 rushing yards and 45 total touchdowns. His performances in big games, including against rivals like Alabama and Georgia, helped cement his legacy as one of Auburn’s all-time greats.
After declaring for the NFL Draft following his junior season, Johnson was selected by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. His NFL career, however, was marred by injuries that limited his impact on the field. Despite these setbacks, Johnson’s time in the NFL further sharpened his understanding of the game at the highest level.
The Shift to Coaching at East Tennessee State
Though Johnson’s professional playing career may not have gone as he hoped, it has certainly provided him with the experience and knowledge needed to succeed in coaching. After stepping away from the game as a player, Johnson expressed a deep desire to remain involved in football and to give back to the sport that had given him so much.
The opportunity at East Tennessee State represents an exciting new chapter for Johnson. While ETSU may not have the same level of national attention as some other college football programs, the Buccaneers are no strangers to success in the Southern Conference (SoCon). Johnson’s move to ETSU gives the program a coach who understands the grind of high-level college football, knows what it takes to succeed at both the collegiate and professional levels, and can offer a unique, player-focused perspective.
Why East Tennessee State?
So why East Tennessee State? The decision likely came down to a combination of several factors. First, the opportunity to coach running backs allows Johnson to focus on a position he played for years and truly understands. This is a critical position in any football program, and Johnson’s playing experience gives him a solid foundation to develop young talent.
Moreover, East Tennessee State has been making strides under head coach Randy Sanders, who has created a competitive and nurturing environment. By bringing in a former college and NFL player like Johnson, Sanders is clearly looking to elevate the program even further. Johnson’s understanding of how to develop talent, his ability to work with players on both the technical and mental aspects of the game, and his leadership skills make him a tremendous asset for the Buccaneers.
Additionally, Johnson’s background as a former SEC player will resonate with many recruits, especially those in the Southeast. His personal experiences in the SEC and the NFL provide him with a unique recruiting pitch to players who aspire to reach the next level. Johnson’s ability to relate to young athletes, offering both on-the-field coaching and off-the-field mentorship, is something that will be invaluable to ETSU’s running back corps.
Kerryon Johnson’s Coaching Philosophy
While we don’t yet have extensive details about Johnson’s specific coaching philosophy, we can infer a few things from his playing style and career path. Johnson was known for his vision, patience, and ability to read defenses, which allowed him to excel in Auburn’s run-heavy offense. These qualities will likely play a significant role in how he coaches his players at ETSU.
Fundamentals First – Johnson likely believes in teaching running backs the importance of fundamentals: footwork, hand placement, ball security, and body positioning. As a running back, these technical skills were crucial to his success at Auburn, and he will likely emphasize the same qualities with his players.
Mentorship and Character Building – Having experienced both the highs and lows of college football and the NFL, Johnson can offer invaluable mentorship to young athletes. His perspective on handling adversity, maintaining focus, and balancing the demands of college athletics and personal life will serve as an important part of his coaching style.
Versatility and Adaptability – Throughout his playing career, Johnson was known for his versatility. He was capable of being both a traditional power back and a threat out of the backfield as a receiving option. His coaching style may encourage running backs to develop a diverse skill set and adapt to various game situations, ensuring they are effective in all aspects of the position.
Focus on Mental Toughness – Johnson has faced plenty of adversity in his career, particularly with his injury struggles in the NFL. His ability to overcome these setbacks and maintain a positive mindset is something he will likely pass on to his players. His emphasis on mental toughness and perseverance will undoubtedly be an essential part of his coaching.
The Impact of Kerryon Johnson’s Coaching at ETSU
The arrival of Kerryon Johnson as the running backs coach at East Tennessee State University is already being viewed as a game-changer for the program. Johnson’s ability to connect with young players, coupled with his high-level experience as a player, brings a significant boost to the Buccaneers’ football staff. His coaching will likely have a lasting impact on the development of ETSU’s running backs, both in terms of their physical skills and their mental approach to the game.
Johnson’s time at Auburn has already cemented his legacy as one of the top running backs in SEC history, and he is now in a position to pass that knowledge down to the next generation. For ETSU, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from someone who has not only seen the game at its highest levels but also understands the ins and outs of the recruiting and development process.
Recruiting Advantages
Johnson’s name recognition and experience in high-level football will give ETSU a significant advantage in recruiting. With his background in the SEC and the NFL, Johnson can connect with high school prospects looking to improve their game and potentially follow in his footsteps to the next level. His unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in both college and the NFL will resonate with recruits, especially those interested in playing running back.
Additionally, Johnson’s experience in Auburn’s program — known for developing NFL-caliber talent — will give him a credible pitch when speaking to recruits who want to play at the next level. As a coach, Johnson can offer insights into the steps young running backs must take to refine their game and gain the attention of scouts and major college programs.
What’s Next for Kerryon Johnson?
Kerryon Johnson’s move to ETSU marks the beginning of what could be an exciting and impactful coaching career. With his extensive playing experience and passion for the game, there is little doubt that he will be able to make an immediate impact on the Buccaneers’ running backs. His leadership, mentorship, and knowledge of the game will be invaluable in helping ETSU build a more competitive football program and develop future stars at the running back position.
As Johnson embarks on this new chapter of his career, he will undoubtedly look to continue learning and evolving as a coach, using his own playing experiences to shape the next generation of running backs. East Tennessee State University, and its fans, should be excited about the future, as Kerryon Johnson’s transition from star player to coach could prove to be a defining moment in the program’s history.