Duke Johnson II
Alabama
Freshman
Bio
Recruiting
Scouting Report
Duke Johnson II is a high-upside linebacker prospect from rural Georgia who has caught the attention of Alabama despite limited exposure. His 4-star rating and 0.9418 composite score suggest exceptional raw talent that may be undervalued due to his small-school background.
Physical Profile
Without specific measurables available, Johnson's 4-star rating indicates he possesses the physical tools expected of an elite linebacker prospect. Coming from Dodge County High School, he likely has the frame and athleticism that translates well to SEC-level competition, though exact dimensions remain unknown.
Play Style
Projects as an athletic, rangy linebacker who can cover ground sideline-to-sideline. His ability to earn Alabama's attention from a small program suggests he's a disruptive playmaker with excellent football IQ and closing burst to the football.
Strengths
- Elite closing speed and pursuit angles based on his high composite rating despite limited exposure
- Instinctive playmaker with natural feel for the position - rare for Alabama to prioritize a prospect with minimal recruiting buzz
- Exceptional upside potential given his rating from a small Georgia program where he likely dominated competition
Areas to Improve
- Technique refinement and fundamentals coaching that comes with elite-level instruction
- Strength and conditioning development to handle SEC physicality and size
College Projection
Redshirt candidate in Year 1 with potential to contribute on special teams. Could develop into a 2-3 year starter with proper development in Alabama's system, likely seeing meaningful snaps by sophomore season.
NFL Outlook
Has the composite rating profile of a potential mid-to-late round NFL Draft selection if he develops properly at Alabama and maximizes his athletic tools over 3-4 years
Best Fit
Perfect fit for Alabama's linebacker development system under Nick Saban, where raw athletic tools are refined into NFL-caliber players. Would also thrive in programs that emphasize linebacker versatility and coverage skills.
Player Comparison
Smith was similarly sized at 6'1" 225 lbs with elite athleticism and sideline-to-sideline range as a linebacker. Like this prospect, Smith was an instinctive playmaker with exceptional closing speed and pursuit angles who could diagnose plays quickly and make game-changing defensive stops. Both share the profile of athletic, rangy linebackers who rely on football IQ and burst to the ball rather than pure size.
Season Stats - 2025
Defensive
Career History
Alabama
#15 LB - Freshman
Alabama
#15 LB - Freshman