Michigan Cornerback Will Johnson – Leader In The Making

Every year, college football players tend to fall into certain categories. Some serve as the class Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) leaders while several athletes pursue outside interests. Others seem to constantly be involved in drama and a few may even be known for their wit or charisma. Overall though, there are always a select few who are constantly involved in community service.

This year, Michigan cornerback Will Johnson is shaping up to be one of the top leaders of his class, both on the field and off. Here is a quick look at some of his community service efforts as a Wolverines’ defensive player thus far. 

Turkey Giveaway

As a freshman, Johnson was quick to start volunteering. In November of 2022, the cornerback pledged to give away 100 turkeys to families in need for Thanksgiving. 

The event was cleverly named “Will 2 Win” and is similar to former teammate Blake Corum’s efforts. Corum was also known for giving back during his time as a Wolverines’ running back and had a similar event called “Giving Back 2 Give Thanks” where he donated turkeys to the Ypsilanti area in Michigan.

Since both event titles featured their jersey numbers, fans may wonder if Corum inspired Johnson.

“Being able to give back to the east side of Detroit with the same people who poured into me: The Detroit Titans and Sound Mind Sound Body is everything to me,” Johnson shared. They have had a hand in helping to raise me. Sound Mind Sound Body is how I got here and being a part of the program at such a young age, and watching the habits of the older guys was a beneficial influence. It’s important to stay humble and give back. Someone did it for me! If I can be in a position to help, then why not help?”

Toy Drive

During his junior year, the cornerback stayed busy by hosting a toy drive with teammate Semaj Morgan. 

Every fan who brought a toy got to take a photo with the athletes. Then, two days before Christmas, the duo held another event where they handed out over 1,000 presents to underprivileged children. Signed cards and autographs were also given to the children, plus time for meet-and-greets with the Wolverines, On3 reported.

“It’s always good giving back to the community,” said Johnson, according to On3. “Give back to the people who supported us growing up. It’s all great and it means a lot. It gives us a reason. (It’s the reason) why there’s NIL. The things we get through football and our platform, giving back to the community are all part of that. That’s our goal.

“It’s about making people happy. Make this time of year happy for them. Make sure they enjoy their time and make sure no one is left out. That’s what it’s all about,” Johnson said.

Check out some photos from the event here! Detroit News even shared information about the kids who attended and their toys.

The cornerback also shared that he enjoyed hosting the event with his teammate. He said the two grew up together and were part of the Sound Mind Sound Body program. 

Johnson’s father, Deon Johnson is not only a former Wolverines’ player but is also one of the co-founders of that organization. The program is dedicated to providing opportunities for students to continue their post-secondary education.

It’s no wonder where his son gets his volunteer efforts from.

Youth Camp

Like many other college athletes, Johnson also holds youth camps.

His 2024 camp was just a few weeks ago and was sponsored by Johnson’s Will 2 Win Youth Foundation. It was open to grades 4-8 and even featured several of the cornerback’s teammates.

According to 247Sports, over was a good turnout for the camp!

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.