In-state defensive end, mom, enjoy Tuesday trip to Auburn

AUBURN, Ala. | St. Paul’s defensive end Ryan Johnson’s visit to Auburn on Tuesday was different from his previous visits.

Johnson, who is ranked the No. 6 strongside end in 2017, saw the Tigers practice. He watched the defensive line, the freshmen and even the coaches.

“I was able to see how they work, how the defensive line plays and see how (defensive line) Coach Rodney Garner coaches,” Johnson said. “I also got to see how Coach (Gus) Malzahn operates things and how Coach (Kevin) Steele runs the defense. It was definitely a great time.”

Johnson spent time prior to practice with a few players, guys he’s known since their days in high school.

“I was able to spend time with guys that I already know like Tre Threat, Tre’ Williams and Marlon Davidson,” Johnson said. “I spent time with them and they showed me how the defense works and how I’d fit into their scheme.”

Johnson’s mother, Angela Johnson, also made the trip.

“We got to meet with the man over the engineering program,” Ryan Johnson said. “She was happy with all the academics. She also enjoyed talking with all the coaches and spending time with them and the players. She loved it.”

Ryan Johnson does, too.

“It’s always a family atmosphere,” Johnson said. “It just gets better and better. Auburn is definitely in my top list of schools. I don’t know when I’m going to come out with a top group, maybe after spring, but Auburn is definitely up there for me.”

Johnson plans to return to Auburn again before the end of spring.

“I like the family atmosphere and I know a lot of the players already on the team,” Johnson said. “That definitely helps. And all of the coaches, I get along with them. The campus is nice. The people are nice. I like everything about Auburn.”

Rivals ranks Johnson the No. 9 overall player in Alabama and No. 207 in the Rivals250.