Syracuse football: LSU RB Ju’Juan Johnson transfers to Orange

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The Syracuse Orange have picked up its second transfer portal commitment on Tuesday morning. LSU running back Ju’Juan Johnson has committed to the Orange. The Lafayette, Louisiana native confirmed his commitment on X. He’ll have two years of eligibility left.

Johnson comes to Syracuse after moving around the gridiron a lot at LSU. He started his career with the Tigers as a safety during his freshman year in 2024. However, he moved to running back after the Tigers running back room depth was hit with injuries. Johnson moved to his high school position of quarterback in the spring of 2025 but returned to running back before the season started.

Johnson rushed for 169 yards on 48 carries and two touchdowns in his LSU Tigers career. He also caught 22 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown. Johnson did complete his only pass attempt in Baton Rogue, which went for 14 yards.

Johnson was a prolific quarterback in high school. At Lafayette Christian Academy, he set the Louisiana record for career total all-purpose yards (14,451) and total touchdowns (171). He was the Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year, Adidas All-American, and one of five finalists for the MaxPreps National Player of the Year. Johnson’s No. 7 jersey was retired by Lafayette Christian Academy after a playoff game during his senior year.

Syracuse’s addition of Johnson greatly helps its depleted running back room. Yasin WIllis, Malachi James and Jaden Hart are Orange running backs who entered the transfer portal. Will Nixon is out of eligibility but is reportedly applying for a medical hardship waiver to play for one more season.

The returning running back room is young and fairly inexperienced in Tylik Hill, Malachi Coleman and Tyler Chandler. Hill is the most experienced, getting 24 rushing attempts for 133 yards last year as a true freshman. Syracuse only signed one running back during national signing day in Shavane Anderson Jr.

Johnson is Syracuse’s second addition through the transfer portal after South Carolina TE Michael Smith committed on Sunday.

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