Former Auburn DL Finds New Home: Stephen Johnson Signs with South Alabama

In the world of college football, the transfer portal is often seen as a gateway for players seeking new opportunities to develop, compete, and showcase their talents on a larger stage. For former Auburn defensive lineman Stephen Johnson, the next step in his football journey has led him to a new chapter with the South Alabama Jaguars. After transferring away from Auburn and spending a season with McNeese State, Johnson’s decision to join South Alabama speaks volumes about his perseverance and determination to succeed at the next level.

Auburn Beginnings: Early Promise and Development

Stephen Johnson’s football career began with considerable promise when he joined Auburn University as part of the Tigers’ 2022 recruiting class. Known for his athleticism and versatility along the defensive line, Johnson was initially a highly regarded prospect coming out of high school.

• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 280 lbs
• Position: Defensive Lineman

Auburn’s defensive line has long been one of the program’s strongest units, filled with elite athletes and top-tier talent. In this environment, Johnson quickly had to adjust to the speed and physicality of SEC football. He spent his freshman year getting acclimated to the demands of Division I football, earning occasional playing time in key moments.

2023 Season with Auburn: Gaining Experience

Johnson’s tenure with Auburn’s defense wasn’t necessarily marked by standout statistics, but he was steadily improving and gaining invaluable experience. Over the course of the season, he appeared in several games, contributing in various defensive schemes under head coach Hugh Freeze’s system. While Johnson was part of a crowded defensive line rotation, he showed flashes of his potential as a future contributor, utilizing his size and quickness to disrupt opposing offenses.

However, the competition for playing time at Auburn was fierce. Auburn’s roster was stacked with talented defensive linemen, making it difficult for younger players to consistently see the field. As the season progressed, it became clear that Johnson’s pathway to more substantial playing time would be challenging. The experience he gained during this time, though, would prove to be crucial in his growth as a player.

The Move to McNeese State: A Fresh Start

After assessing his situation, Stephen Johnson made the decision to enter the transfer portal following the 2023 season. Seeking a program where he could earn more playing time and develop his game further, he chose to transfer to McNeese State, a program in the Southland Conference.

McNeese State, with its tradition of competitive football, offered Johnson a fresh start. Moving to a smaller program allowed him to become a more prominent player and get increased exposure. For Johnson, this move meant more playing time and the opportunity to hone his skills in a system where he would be able to make an immediate impact.

2024 Season at McNeese State: A Year of Growth

During the 2024 season at McNeese, Johnson had a solid showing. He appeared in 10 games, making a considerable impact as both a pass rusher and run defender. While his numbers weren’t eye-popping, his ability to contribute in various defensive situations caught the attention of scouts and analysts.

Here are his key statistics from the 2024 season:

• Tackles: 17
• Sacks: 1
• Pass Breakups: 1
• Blocked Kick: 1

Although McNeese State’s defense as a whole faced challenges, Johnson’s development was a bright spot. His performance in his first season at the program helped solidify his reputation as a versatile and promising defensive lineman. However, despite his efforts, he faced another reality: the need to play at an even higher level to achieve his NFL dreams.

South Alabama: A New Home in the Sun Belt

As the 2025 season approached, Johnson continued to look for the best environment to further develop and prepare for a potential professional career. After a productive year at McNeese State, he turned his attention to schools in the Sun Belt Conference — and South Alabama emerged as the ideal landing spot.

South Alabama, based in Mobile, Alabama, has become a competitive force in the Sun Belt, with a solid football program and a growing reputation for developing players who eventually make their mark at the professional level. Johnson’s decision to sign with the Jaguars reflects his desire to compete at a higher level while staying within the state of Alabama, making it an ideal fit both geographically and athletically.

What South Alabama Offers Johnson

• Coaching: South Alabama’s defensive coordinator, Corey Batoon, runs a system that emphasizes aggressive play on the defensive line. This scheme plays to Johnson’s strengths as a player who can disrupt the line of scrimmage and generate pressure in passing situations.
• Playing Time: Johnson will step into an important role immediately, likely as a key contributor to the Jaguars’ defensive line rotation. His prior experience in the SEC and at McNeese will help him adjust quickly to the level of play at South Alabama.
• Location: Staying in Alabama means Johnson will be closer to family and friends, giving him a sense of familiarity and support as he embarks on the next phase of his career.

What South Alabama Sees in Johnson

For South Alabama, landing a player like Stephen Johnson adds depth and experience to the defensive front. The Jaguars are looking to build on their momentum in the Sun Belt and continue to improve their defense. With depth and a strong recruiting class, Johnson will help fill a gap in the team’s line, especially in terms of pass-rush ability and overall versatility.

Corey Batoon, the Jaguars’ defensive coordinator, commented on the addition of Johnson:
“Stephen brings a wealth of experience from both the SEC and McNeese State. We love his energy and ability to disrupt plays. His athleticism and leadership will help us take the next step defensively.”

The Road Ahead: A Key Contributor for 2025

With three years of eligibility remaining, Johnson will have the opportunity to continue developing and polishing his skills as a key member of South Alabama’s defensive line. As the 2025 season unfolds, Johnson will be tasked with playing an integral role in the Jaguars’ defense, providing an important presence against the run while continuing to improve his pass-rushing abilities.

In the coming months, all eyes will be on how Johnson’s skills translate to the Sun Belt. If he can take his game to the next level, he will not only help South Alabama contend for conference championships but also position himself for a future in professional football.

The Transfer Portal: A New Reality in College Football

Johnson’s journey highlights a growing trend in college football: the transfer portal. This tool has become an essential part of college football, allowing players to find the best environment for their development and career prospects. While the portal has created a more fluid player market, it also provides opportunities for players like Johnson to restart and thrive.

For many, the portal represents hope. It gives players the chance to find the right fit, and for Johnson, that fit was found in South Alabama. His story is one of perseverance and adaptability, a journey that many college football players can relate to in today’s evolving landscape.

Future Prospects: The NFL Dream

While it’s impossible to predict the future, Johnson’s move to South Alabama provides him with the opportunity to continue progressing toward his ultimate goal: the NFL.

With his size, athleticism, and experience in high-level programs, Johnson has the physical tools necessary to succeed at the next level. His time at Auburn, McNeese State, and now South Alabama will all be part of his development as a player. If he can continue to improve his technique, become a more consistent pass rusher, and contribute significantly in the Sun Belt, Johnson may have a real shot at catching the attention of NFL scouts.

The dream of playing in the NFL is always in the back of a player’s mind, and for Stephen Johnson, this next chapter is an important step toward making that dream a reality.

A Closing Reflection: Resilience and Determination

Stephen Johnson’s journey from Auburn to McNeese State and now to South Alabama serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to succeed in college football. The road isn’t always linear, and for many players, it’s the path less taken — through hard work, adaptability, and a belief in themselves — that ultimately leads to success.

For Johnson, this is just the beginning of what could be an exciting new chapter. His journey is one that many fans will be following closely, hoping to see him make an impact at South Alabama and, eventually, take his place in the professional ranks.

With a solid foundation and a fresh start, Stephen Johnson is ready to prove that his best football is ahead of him.

What’s Next for South Alabama’s Defense?

With Stephen Johnson now on board, all eyes will be on the Jaguars’ defense this fall. Will he emerge as a leader on the line? Can South Alabama continue to rise as a dominant force in the Sun Belt Conference? Time will tell, but one thing is for sure — Stephen Johnson is ready to contribute, and his story is far from over.