Jackson Academy four-star WR O'Mari Johnson commits to UNC football, Bill Belichick
Jackson Academy's O'Mari Johnson has committed to North Carolina football and its famous former NFL coach, Bill Belichick.
Johnson announced his decision Sunday night on X, formerly Twitter. The 6-foot, 170-pound junior wide receiver is a four-star recruit, according to 247Sports Composite, and is the No. 12 player in Mississippi in the Class of 2026.
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"I felt like UNC gave me a sense of security. I just felt like it was right for me," he said in his social media post. … Each time being on the campus, I have loved the school and (all) it has to offer more and more. I feel like North Carolina is a place where I'll be embraced and modeled as an athlete and student.
"I never imagined this opportunity, but I will embrace and give it all that I have to offer. I look forward to learning and contributing to the program."
Johnson, who plays wide receiver and defensive back, chose UNC over Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Florida, Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida State, LSU and Penn State.
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He suffered an injury ahead of the 2024 season and missed the regular season, but appeared in Jackson Academy's MAIS Class 6A semifinal playoff game, recording one catch for 33 yards. The Raiders finished the year 9-4.
Johnson is the second high school football player from Mississippi to commit to the Tar Heels. The first was Harrison Central wide receiver Darrion Kirksey, who committed on April 4.
Michael Chavez covers high school sports, among others, for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at mchavez@gannett.com or reach out to him on X, formerly Twitter @MikeSChavez.
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: MAIS football: WR O'Mari Johnson commits to UNC, Bill Belichick
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