Colton Johnson Picks Ole Miss

Commitment Announcement

Upperman junior tight end Colton Johnson confirmed his decision to attend Ole Miss on July 9 through a post on his X account. The announcement puts Johnson, a 6‑foot‑4, 230‑pound prospect, in the fold for the Rebels’ 2027 recruiting class. Johnson’s family and teammates celebrated the news, marking a major milestone for the player.

He previously revealed that the commitment came after careful consideration of multiple offers. The X post included no additional details beyond the school’s name. Friends and local media quickly highlighted the significance of the pick for both the player and the Tennessee high‑school scene.

Recruiting Journey

Johnson’s stock rose sharply in the spring after his junior season tape circulated. Programs such as Tennessee, Alabama, Indiana, Ohio State, and Oregon intensified their interest during that period. By the time the contact window opened, he was receiving offers from Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Florida State, and Ole Miss as well.

247Sports Composite lists him as the No. 28 prospect among 2027 prospects in Tennessee, underscoring his rising profile. He described how posting his junior film triggered a wave of new offers, noting that many schools wanted to evaluate him in person. The competitive interest reflected his versatility and the growing reputation of Upperman’s program.

Stats and Highlights

During the 2025 TSSAA season, Johnson amassed 37 receptions for 615 yards and four touchdowns. His offensive production helped Upperman finish 9‑3, though the Bees fell in the second round of the playoffs to eventual Class 4A champion Alcoa. Defensively, he logged 133 tackles and earned Region 4‑4A Defensive MVP honors.

His defensive excellence earned him a TSWA All‑State selection at linebacker. Several colleges have expressed interest in seeing him contribute on both sides of the ball, yet his primary focus remains tight end. Johnson’s dual‑role performance showcases his rarity as a two‑way talent at the high‑school level.

Dual‑Sport Impact

Beyond football, Johnson is a standout basketball player. This past season he averaged 12.4 points, 9.5 rebounds, and shot 54.4 % from the field for Upperman. His play helped the Bees advance to the Class 3A state semifinals, adding another layer to his athletic résumé.

Coaches praised his work ethic and leadership on both rosters, noting that his dedication sets a high example for teammates. Johnson mentioned that the recruitment buzz has also drawn extra attention to the school’s overall athletic program. His success on two courts continues to build momentum for future Upperman prospects.

What This Means for Upperman

Johnson is believed to be just the second Upperman graduate to secure an FBS scholarship, highlighting a growing pipeline from the school to top‑level college football. The commitment has already sparked excitement among local fans and increased visibility for the Bees’ recruiting efforts. As he begins his collegiate career, many expect his performance to inspire younger athletes in the region.

His decision also reflects broader trends in Tennessee’s high‑school football landscape, where dual‑sport athletes are increasingly valued. Johnson’s ability to draw attention to Upperman’s programs suggests that the school’s investing in developing multi‑dimensional players will pay dividends. Looking ahead, the community hopes his college success will create a ripple effect, encouraging more top‑tier talent to consider Upperman as a launchpad for future opportunities.