By Casz “C2” Clayton/ C2 on the Road
Palm Beach Gardens, FL — Spring football has a way of revealing who’s ready to lead—and Jordan Johnson, quarterback for Palm Beach Gardens High School, is proving he’s built for that pressure.
Only a member of the Class of 2027, Johnson is already stepping up as the voice of a young team, owning every rep, every read, and every responsibility that comes with being “the guy.”
“I’ve got a lot of young guys around me,” Johnson told C2. “That just means I’ve got to take more reps, build that chemistry, and keep their confidence up.”Coach [Higgins] told me—this is your year to take over.”
It’s a mindset that hasn’t gone unnoticed by his coaches. Offensive coordinator Frank Brown says Johnson is embracing the role of field general with maturity and consistency.
That shift from talented underclassman to field leader hasn’t just come from physical work. Johnson’s taken it upon himself to study more film, sharpen his decision-making, and lead when it matters most—especially when adversity hits.
“I’ve grown in all areas, really,” he said. “Footwork, reads, getting stronger, being vocal. I just want to be the spark my team can count on—no matter the score.”
Offensive coordinator Frank Brown agrees. He’s seen a noticeable change in Johnson this spring—a player who’s no longer just learning the offense, but commanding it.
“He’s more mature. He’s stepping into that leadership role we’ve been waiting on,” Brown said. “He’s holding everyone accountable. If the receivers come out slow, he’s going back in to get them. That’s what leaders do.”
Coach Brown also praised the developing chemistry between Johnson and his receivers, especially newcomer Kamari Ingram, who’s been making noise alongside returning standout Laronte Davis.
“The more they throw, the more that bond builds,” Brown added. “Jordan’s getting more comfortable with each rep.”
With college coaches already walking the halls at Gardens, Johnson knows every spring snap matters. And he’s got his goals locked in: three touchdowns in each of the two spring games and two wins to cap it off.
But beyond the numbers, Johnson wants to leave an impression.
“When coaches watch my film, I want them to say: ‘That kid’s a leader. That’s someone I can build a program around,’” he said. “I want to be that franchise-type quarterback—on and off the field.”
