UCLA Football: 3-Star OL Gets Brutally Honest on Reason Behind Committing to Bruins

Three-star offensive line prospect Nehemiah Johnson announced on Friday that he is committing to play college football at UCLA. Johnson, who shared his decision on X, becomes the 16th commitment in UCLA’s 2025 recruiting class.

“All praise to Jesus for his blessings,” Johnson stated. “I’m thrilled to announce my commitment to UCLA football. Thanks to my family, coaches, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey—none of this would be possible without you. Love you all.”

The 6-foot-5, 320-pound lineman explained that playing close to home was a “dream” come true, and the coaching staff played a significant role in his decision.

“Having a coach who believes in you and has NFL experience like Coach [Juan] Castillo is huge… I appreciate how Coach [DeShaun] Foster is a genuinely caring person. His strong faith and walk with the Lord made the decision even easier,” Johnson told 247 Sports.

The positive impact of the coaching staff has been a significant factor in UCLA’s recent recruiting successes. Multiple recruits have highlighted Coach Foster and his assistants as key reasons for their commitment to UCLA. After facing criticism for his recruiting methods, former head coach Chip Kelly’s successor, Foster, has focused on high school recruiting since taking over in February.

Johnson, who attends Orange Lutheran High School in Orange, California, is entering his senior year. Before UCLA extended an offer on June 19, 2024, his only other offer came from UMass on May 24, 2023.

During his junior season, Johnson’s blocking contributed to a strong rushing attack for Orange Lutheran, with the team rushing for over 400 yards in their first two games of the 2023 season.

Johnson joins a UCLA recruiting class that includes four-star quarterback Madden Iamaleava and four-star safety Jadyn Hudson, as well as linebacker Weston Port, tight ends Dylan Sims and Noah Flores, running back Karson Cox, wide receiver Jace Brown, cornerbacks Chase Coleman and Kuron Jabari Jr., defensive linemen Scott Taylor, Tyler Partlow, and Epi Sitanilei, quarterback Colton Gumino, long snapper Halakilangi Muagututia Jr., and offensive lineman Garrison Blank.