Johnson has been a steady riser for us since Rutgers saw his early potential and secured his commitment in March. Frankly, we initially weren’t all the way convinced, but now we’re all in on the big tackle. He’s quietly put his head down and let his play on the field do the talking, leading up to Signing Day.

Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC — c/o 2026 (OL/DL) — Rutgers Commit

Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC is a blue‑collar leader who’s already earned a Rutgers offer and is determined to be the best offensive lineman in the state this season. He’ll anchor the O‑line while also stepping onto the defensive front when the team needs him — a true two‑way presence. Johnson leads both by example and with his voice on the field, thrives under coaching, and brings a relentless work ethic every day. Expect him to set the tone in the trenches and be one of the most dominant linemen in the region.

Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC | OL | Pine Forest High School | Class of 2026

Rutgers Commit | 6’4” | 320 lbs

One of—if not the—most dominant athletes in the 910, Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC is a force on the offensive line. With violent, quick hands and surprisingly nimble feet for his size, he’s been nearly unstoppable this offseason. Johnson has racked up major accolades, including Top Lineman honors at the Carolina Coaches Combine—a key event in selecting participants for the East-West All-Star Game and the prestigious Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas, which features the top seniors from both North and South Carolina.

Dominant in the trenches and disciplined in his craft, Johnson has shown he’s more than ready for the next level—and Rutgers is getting a good one

Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC Dominates the Trenches at Carolina Coaches Combine

Donovan Johnson Donovan Johnson 6'4" | 325 lbs | OL/DL Pine Forest | 2026 State NC , a Rutgers University commit and rising senior from Pine Forest High School, put on a show at the Carolina Coaches Combine in Princeton, NC. Arguably the most dominant lineman in attendance, Johnson proved why he’s a Power Four-caliber athlete.

With an elite combination of size, speed, and strength, Johnson won every single 1-on-1 rep and stood out during the testing portion of the event. His strength was on full display as he put up 25 reps of 185 pounds on the bench press.

One of the top recruits in the Carolinas, Johnson presence was felt all game long. The Jr. played on both sides of the ball which I was surprised to see. Donovan showed elite toughness and speed on the defensive side of the ball. He was doubled teamed the majority of the game while on defense, and he handled it well. Next level, Johnson is a can’t miss Power 4 athlete.

With offers from Wake Forest and Hampton in hand, my honest opinion is Donovan should be receiving even more attention. Donovan is a nasty and strong prospect who relishes dominating his blockers at the point of attack. He is athletic and can pull and pin in the running game, get out and lead block in the screen game, and pass protect at a high level.