Miami Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson has a huge decision to make regarding his future but fans will have to wait. Johnson will wait to announce whether or not he plans to return to Miami for his senior season or go pro until Dec. 28.
In the meantime, Johnson is focused on the Hurricanes’ postseason bout against South Carolina in the Independence Bowl on Dec. 27 which could turn out to be his final game as a member of the ‘U’.
The Miami native is the Hurricanes’ all-time leading rusher with 3, 387 yards. His 2014 campaign has proven to be his best season yet, rushing for 1,520 yards and ten touchdowns this year.
The announcement date happens to coincide with the birthday of his mother, who will be helping Johnson make his decision. While attaining a degree is very important to Johnson and his family, the thought of another major injury could sway him to turn pro early. Johnson was forced to miss Miami’s final five games of 2013 after suffering a broken ankle against Florida State.
He spoke about his decision to the Sun-Sentinel.
“It’s weird,” Johnson stated. “I don’t know. Everything is falling into place, everything is working out for the best and I think to share whatever decision we make, to share it with her on her birthday, will be great…I think she’ll be somewhere having a great old time.”
Johnson is part of a deep running back class and is projected to get selected in the second or third round of the NFL draft if he does choose to enter.
A five-star prospect out of Miami, Johnson decided to uphold the Hurricanes’ legacy and stay home to play college football. No matter what his decision may be, Johnson will always be remembered as one of the best and most dynamic playmakers to ever play at the University of Miami.
*Section Photo credit to Joel Auerbach, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to David Mercer, USA Today Sports.
