Tyler Johnson would likely be drafted if he were to enter the NFL Draft, but the All-Big Ten wide receiver might’ve dropped a hint that he’ll be back for one more year with the Gophers.
Following this two-touchdown performance in Minnesota’s 34-10 win over Georgia Tech in the Quick Lane Bowl on Wednesday, Johnson looked into a camera and said: “See you next year.”
https://twitter.com/GobieMN/status/1078122724369801222
Johnson finished his junior season with 78 receptions for 1,169 yards and 12 touchdowns. His yardage and touchdown totals are new single-season records for the Gophers.
“It really hasn’t come to mind yet,” Johnson said earlier this week when asked if he’s thought about entering the draft, according to the Pioneer Press. “I’m just focused on finishing the season and really being there for my teammates. So whatever happens, happens.”
Johnson, as an underclassman, has until Jan. 14 to declare for the NFL Draft. If he doesn’t, he’ll return to an up-and-coming program filled with young talent, including fellow wide receivers Rashad Bateman and Chris Autman-Bell.
According to the team’s website, the Gophers led the country with 52 percent of its roster filled with freshmen, one of them being running back Mohamed Ibrahim, who rushed for 224 yards and two touchdowns on Wednesday.
Minnesota opens the 2019 season at home Aug. 29 against South Dakota State.
