DELRAY BEACH – The offseason is both a time to reflect on what transpired in the previous season and what could be done to improve moving forward.
This is the mindset of American Heritage (Delray Beach) defensive end CJ Johnson, who had a junior season to remember.
Our Co-Defensive Player of the Year for Private Schools finished 2021 with 61 tackles (23 tackles for loss), 16 sacks, 16 quarterback pressures, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one blocked punt. He did this in six games played.
Johnson’s best individual game was in Week 6 at Benjamin, when he recorded 11 total tackles (six solo) and two sacks in a close 28-22 loss.
“I give a big thanks to my defensive line coach [Mike] Hall [Sr.],” the 6-foot-2, 230-pound defensive end said. “He worked with me nonstop all year long. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”
Hall Sr. raved on Johnson’s junior season.
“CJ is a special player,” Hall Sr. said. “He has the ability to wreak havoc on an offense. He stepped up and became a leader on defense through his play on the field. Whenever we needed a big play on defense, CJ came through whether it was a sack, tackle for loss, or blocking a punt. CJ is a high motor young man with a great football IQ. He has made huge strides every year, and I can’t wait to see him his senior year.”
Johnson reflected on the successes he had in his junior season and what he can work on this offseason and beyond.
“The season was a blast and I learned more than ever,” Johnson said. “The new defensive coordinator (CJ Johnson) taught me the position I am playing. He showed me what it’s about to understand it and how to get better at it. I also worked on little things with Coach Hall to better my craft and understand the game. I still have a lot to learn, and I am ready to learn.”
Johnson dedicated his junior year to former American Heritage head coach Brian Sheridan, who passed away from cancer in September 2020.
“This whole season and on is for Coach Sheridan,” Johnson said. “I will remember the life lessons he taught me and the things told me, like for example, ‘No one is ever higher than you. But don’t you dare think you’re higher anybody else because we’re all equal in the same. So work harder than everyone so you can have a edge.’ I just wanna say I wouldn’t have had a season like last year if I didn’t have great coaches.”
