Georgia Bulldogs Lose Five-Star Gem as Johnson Picks Texas Longhorns Late
In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, five-star wide receiver Malik Johnson has decommitted from the Georgia Bulldogs and announced his commitment to the Texas Longhorns — just weeks before National Signing Day.
Johnson, widely considered one of the top offensive playmakers in the 2025 recruiting class, had been a long-time Georgia lean. The Bulldogs had invested heavily in recruiting the elite prospect, who hails from Houston, Texas, and had made multiple visits to Athens over the past year. But in a move that few saw coming, Johnson reversed course and pledged to play for Steve Sarkisian’s Longhorns.
A Devastating Loss for Georgia
The loss is a major blow for Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, who had counted Johnson among the crown jewels of the Bulldogs’ 2025 recruiting class. Johnson’s elite speed, route-running ability, and high football IQ made him a potential day-one contributor — and possibly the next in a long line of Georgia stars destined for the NFL.
“Malik was someone we saw as a game-changer,” one Georgia staff member told sources anonymously. “Losing him this late hurts — not just because of his talent, but because of the time and relationship we’ve built with him and his family.”
Georgia fans, who had followed Johnson’s recruitment closely, took to social media to express their shock and frustration. Many had considered his commitment all but official, with insiders previously suggesting that he was “100% locked in” with the Dawgs. But as is often the case in recruiting, nothing is final until the ink is dry on signing day.
Why the Flip?
So what prompted Johnson’s sudden change of heart?
Sources close to the situation indicate that Texas made a strong final push, emphasizing not only their growing reputation for developing NFL-caliber wide receivers, but also the opportunity to stay closer to home. Sarkisian and his staff reportedly built a strong rapport with Johnson’s family, and the recent success of Texas’ offensive system — combined with the buzz around their move to the SEC — helped seal the deal.
In an interview following his commitment announcement, Johnson cited both personal and football-related reasons for the switch.
“I have a lot of love for Coach Smart and the Georgia program,” Johnson said. “They’ve been great to me from day one. But after some tough conversations with my family and really thinking about my future, I felt Texas was where my heart was. I believe in what Coach Sark is building, and I want to be part of bringing championships back to Austin.”
Big Win for the Longhorns
For the Longhorns, Johnson’s commitment represents a massive win on the recruiting trail. Not only did Texas land one of the most electrifying prospects in the country, but they also pulled him away from an SEC powerhouse — further signaling that the Longhorns are serious contenders in their upcoming transition to the SEC.
“Getting Malik is a game-changer,” Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian said in a brief statement. “He’s got elite talent, great character, and the competitive fire we look for in all our guys. We’re excited to see what he’ll bring to our offense.”
Texas now boasts one of the top-ranked recruiting classes in the nation, bolstered by other blue-chip talents on both sides of the ball. With Johnson in the fold, the Longhorns’ offense is shaping up to be one of the most dangerous in the country in the years ahead.
The Bigger Picture
Johnson’s flip serves as a reminder of just how unpredictable — and competitive — the world of college football recruiting has become. With the growing influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, conference realignment, and intense competition among top programs, late changes like this one are becoming more common.
Still, few could have predicted that Georgia, a national powerhouse and perennial Playoff contender, would lose a prospect of Johnson’s caliber so late in the process.
Recruiting experts say the Bulldogs will now look to regroup and possibly pursue other wide receiver targets in the final stretch before signing day. While Georgia’s class remains strong overall, the loss of Johnson stings — and could open the door for rivals like Alabama, LSU, or even Florida to close the gap.
Looking Ahead
As for Johnson, the talented wideout will now look to make his mark in burnt orange. He’ll join a rising Texas program eager to prove it belongs among college football’s elite — and his decision may well inspire other recruits to follow his lead.
“Texas is home,” Johnson said. “I’m ready to get to work.”
Only time will tell whether this bold move pays off. But one thing’s for certain: the battle for college football’s top talent is far from over.
