Penn State Football: Dorian Johnson Bolsters Offensive Line Recruiting

Updated at 10:12 p.m.

Penn State added some beef to its 2013 recruiting class Sunday night, securing a verbal commitment from four-star offensive tackle Dorian Johnson.

The 6-foot-6, 280-pounder from Belle Vernon, near Pittsburgh, became the 12th member to commit to Penn State for 2013.

Saturday’s on-campus visit sealed the deal for Johnson, his high school coach, Aaron Krepps, said Sunday night by phone.

Running backs coach Charles London was the main liaison between PSU and Johnson since January, and he and offensive line coach Mac McWhorter took visits to Johnson’s high school during the spring recruiting period.

‘They took the right approach,’ Krepps said. ‘I liked their style in not pressuring Dorian for a commitment. They showed him what they have to offer.’

Johnson has room to add 30-40 pounds to his frame for his college career, his coach said. His body fat is around 10-12 percent.

He is the third offensive line prospect to commit to Penn State, joining New Jersey four-star recruit Brendan Mahon and Hershey’s Andrew Nelson. He’s also the first WPIAL player to commit to new Penn State coach Bill O’Brien.

Mahon is another big-time offensive tackle prospect, and redshirt freshman Donovan Smith, the first-team left tackle heading into training camp, could be a rock at that position for four years.

Krepps said he never thought to move Johnson, who also doubles as a defensive tackle, inside to guard.

‘Dorian’s a blend of size, speed and strength,’ Krepps said. ‘Long arms, tall, knee bend, he is the total package. He’s got a ton of upside.’

Like the other 11 recruits in the class, his commitment is not binding until Johnson signs a letter of intent in February. According to Krepps, the possibility of enrolling early in January has not been discussed.

Bringing in Johnson wouldn’t do anything to hurt Penn State’s class ranking, which currently stands at No. 13 nationally, according to Rivals.com. In fact, it will likely help it. His offer sheet was loaded with names such as Alabama, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Virginia Tech and Wisconsin.

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