Diamond In The Rough: Drake Johnson

Drake Johnson is a 5’10 All-District cornerback out of Kenner Discovery in Kenner, Louisiana. His family members are his biggest supporters and that support has shown Johnson that teamwork and connections are important as a football player. Weighing at 160 pounds, he has led Kenner Discovery in getting picks, proving that he’s a player that is a quick and focused thinker with great hands. He is hungry and determined to be a better player every time he steps on the field.

Check out Drake Johnson in the 2021 Defensive Backs

At what age did you begin playing?

I began playing at eight years old.

What did football teach you about life once you started playing it?

Football has taught me a lot of things about teamwork. You need more than yourself, especially to get a win. People have to unite and be one. Hard Work pays off. You have to be dedicated to get what you want. 

Who are your biggest motivators for playing the game?

My brothers and dad, basically my whole family motivate me to play the game.

Do you play any other sports in high school?

I played soccer my freshman year. We didn’t have a football team at the time. Playing soccer helped me condition and stay fit. The football team came the next year, so I was ready.

How do you think coaches and teammates would describe you as a player?

I think they would describe me as someone who’s willing to put it all on the line for the team. I’m someone who’s going to push his teammates to be better.

What advice would you give to younger players who want to play high school football one day?

I would tell them to not give up. Make sure you keep showing up everyday and do what you have to do. Let the coaches know that you can play ball.

Do you have a favorite college or NFL athlete?

My favorite athlete is Derek Stingley from LSU. He came in as a freshman and is now one of the best corners in college right now. He’s a man to man guy and locks up the field every game. 

Outside of sports, do you have any hobbies?
I like to play video games and skateboard.

For the upcoming season, what are some goals that you look forward to accomplishing?

I look forward to having a better record than last season. I also want to make the playoffs this season. Everyone needs to see that we’re not still just a new school. We’re here to stay.

What do you think makes you unique to your position?

I’m able to read the routes a little bit before my opponents run it.

Have you played any other positions? What other positions would you want to play?

If i could play another position, I would play receiver. I want to know how it feels being on the other side of the ball. When I was younger, I played running back.

What is your favorite high school memory so far on the team?

The first varsity win that we had was hype seeing everything come together.

What do you do in your offseason?

In the offseason, I make sure to stay in shape. I also watch films and always work out to better my game. Just making sure I’m ready for the next season.  

Do you have any specific personal goals for next season?

My personal goal for this season is to lead the team in picks again. Hopefully I can even double the amount.

Have you thought about what you would want to major in in college?

It would probably be business management. I want to own my own business one day, so it would have to be in business or something with finances.

What are some pregame activities that your team does?

Before the game, the team sits in the locker room. I like to make sure my friends are ready. I make sure everyone is ready to go to war. I hype the team up.

What would you say is the most challenging thing about being a cornerback?

I would say that if a receiver breaks free and the other team scores, it’s challenging to overcome that. Coming back the next drive and locking them down is crucial.

What would you say is the most impactful moment of your career?

Probably when I made all-district for cornerback. That was a very impactful moment of my career.