'He's got great focus': Defensive coordinator Robb Akey wants to 'buy stock' in LaQuan Johnson's future
Fresh out of Burton Bendle High School in Flint, defensive lineman LaQuan Johnson emerged for Central Michigan in the 2018 season.
The true freshman sat out for the majority of the campaign, as former coach John Bonamego only used him in the final four games to preserve his redshirt and guarantee an extra year of eligibility.
In those four games, Johnson made 15 tackles, 4.5 tackles for a loss and one sack. He got his first start on Nov. 3 against Eastern Michigan.
"He's a very hard-working kid," Bonamego said of Johnson. "That's a trait that will help someone reach their potential. He's grown in the last eight months."
Since Johnson's first collegiate start, Bonamego has been fired and replaced by new coach Jim McElwain. His defensive coordinator, Greg Colby, is also gone.
Johnson is now in the hands of new defensive coordinator Robb Akey, who projects a bright future for the young lineman with four full seasons of eligibility remaining.
"I'm really excited about his future," Akey said. "He's a youngster who got his feet wet somewhat last year. He's got size, good quickness, and I think he's a great kid. It means a lot to him because he's working at it.
"I told him, 'I'm going to buy some stock in your future, big boy.'"
What makes Johnson special to Akey is his quick footwork for a teenager with a 6-foot-3, 282-pound frame. Johnson also features a "good motor" and should get stronger throughout the offseason.
As a two-year starter in high school, Johnson logged 184 tackles, 21 sacks and five defensive touchdowns. He was a First Team All-State selection by the Detroit Free Press in 2017.
Growth in all aspects of the game to deliver those type of numbers and accomplishments at Central Michigan is expected of Johnson.
"I mean, he's only a freshman and is going to be a redshirt freshman, so that's a good thing for a kid that's already that big," Akey said. "He's going to continue to get stronger as the weight room takes over a little bit more.
Besides his quickness and projected strength, Akey said Johnson's work ethic as a freshman in college is unprecedented.
"It matters to him," Akey said. "He's got great focus and is driven to make himself the best player he can be."
Johnson has the ability to play either defensive end or defensive tackle. His versatility across the front line is something the Chippewas will be able to use for years to come.
Former linebacker Malik Fountain, who played his last season in 2018, praised Johnson's natural ability and quickness. Fountain understands talent, as he was a top-notch linebacker in the Mid-American Conference with 153 tackles, eight tackles for a loss, one sack, two interceptions and one forced fumble as a senior.
"I see a lot of potential, fight, will and natural ability," Fountain said. "It's eye-opening how good he can be. Realistically, he can be up there with the best in the country. He is that good. He was slept on."
Fountain added that Johnson can pass rush, scout out plays, battle through double teams and make plays on both the inside and outside of the line.
"There's nothing LaQuan Johnson can't do," Fountain said.
One immediate need is a solidified replacement for All-MAC First Team defensive end Mike Danna – a recent graduate transfer to Michigan. Johnson might be the long-term option to fill Danna's shoes, starting this season.
Akey was blunt at first when asked about losing Danna to the Wolverines. Then, he provided more context to how CMU will respond without him on the roster.
"He's not here; I'm not coaching him," Akey said. "Free agency has brought its face into college football. I'm excited about the guys that are excited about being here. We've got a group of dudes that are fired up about being Chips, fired up about getting the job. That's where I'm putting my energy."
"I love the way they're progressing, and we have a lot of work to do."
