The Miami Redhawks stayed active in Missouri powerhouse Lutheran North’s 2027 class to kick the month off, also offering standout freshman OL Lonnie Johnson Jr. on May 1st. A Missouri Football Coaches Association Class 4 All-State pick in his first year of high school football – the only freshman to make the team I may add – Johnson Jr. measures in at 6’2, 305 lbs. and is a road-grader of a right tackle who backs up the All-State nod on film.

Johnson Jr. sends defenders flying like a cartoon and then comes in to give them another shot while they’re on their knees, and he can manhandle varsity opponents in both the run and pass game. The 300+ lber. possesses the most powerful punch on this list, upending varsity DEs like someone swept their legs out from under them when he gets a good shot on you. He displays good bend, gets out of his stance low and with aggression, and understands leverage and how to take advantage of an opponent who is off balance or out of position.  I like how Johnson Jr. stays square, keeps his feet active in pass pro, stays patient but times out his punches well, and looks to attack and bring the physicality to the defender, and overall if he gets his paws on you it’s game over. Additionally, he demonstrates a great get-off as a DT and has the strength and balance to beat double teams in the heart of the LOS and is a force in run defense. To back up that power, Johnson Jr. also throws the shot put and recorded an impressive 45′.25 shot put at the end of April. Gotta like an OT who throws shot and discus. Another fun Lutheran North freshman to keep tabs on going forward, what a class that’s shaping out to be.