JuJu Johnson | Long Beach Poly WR/DB | UCLA Commit | Sports Stars of Tomorrow

A season-ending foot injury wiped out JuJu Johnson's entire junior year at Long Beach Poly. What followed was a summer spent proving that the setback was just a detour.

Johnson, a two-way standout at one of Southern California's most storied high school programs, made his return to competition count — earning Defensive MVP at The Opening's Dallas Regional, a national camp circuit that draws some of the top prospects in the country. For Johnson, the hardware was secondary to the statement it represented. "I didn't come here for MVP," he said. "First time competing the whole year, had a season-ending injury. Thankful and blessed to have MVP. Prove more, get back to where I was and more."

Johnson lines up at both wide receiver and defensive back, and his versatility is a genuine asset rather than a roster convenience. First-year Long Beach Poly head coach Travon Patterson described Johnson's ability at cornerback as a matchup-winner in its own right — someone who can lock down a side of the field and free up the defense to focus elsewhere. On offense, Johnson's elite speed makes him a vertical threat capable of taking over a game with the ball in his hands.

Patterson also pointed to junior teammate Donte Wright as another weapon in the Jackrabbits' arsenal, but made clear that Johnson's presence elevates everyone around him. "He brings so much leadership and excitement," Patterson said. "Dallas was just a glimpse."

Johnson has committed to UCLA, keeping him in Southern California at the next level. But before he heads to Westwood, he has unfinished business at Long Beach Poly. His goal for his senior season is straightforward: lead the Jackrabbits to a championship. "We can be great. We're going to be great," Johnson said. "It's up to us on Fridays."