ASU's in-state recruiting efforts under first-year head coach Kenny Dillingham have been quite apparent, and this evening came to fruition once again with the commitment of Scottsdale Chaparral ATH Plas Johnson, the Sun Devils' fifth in-state pledge in the 2024 class. Johnson is ranked as a Top-15 in-state prospect and Top-55 nationally at his position.

“I trust them with my ability to grow, and I really do think the coaches can do something special with this program,” Johnson said. “The players and coaches, everyone there is like family; outside of the recruitment (process), the players and coaches always stay the same way. I just really feel like I found a fit in that program.

“When they offered me, I didn’t know right away that I would commit there. But it was definitely a thought because it was in my hometown. Staying in Arizona wasn’t a whole big thing to me, but they showed me that it was a special place. Getting to meet the coaches and the players on the visit, seeing their work ethic, I was already sold on ASU then.”

Throughout the recruiting, Johnson has enjoyed a close relationship with the Sun Devils' cornerbacks coach Bryan Carrington, which naturally was another significant aspect of his decision.

“Coach Carrington is a cool dude," Johnson commented. "He can get serious when it’s time to lock in, and that’s something I need, especially when I go to the college level. I liked the schemes and how he was running his defense. If I went there, there’s a good chance I could develop at that place pretty well.”

As a junior for the Firebirds, Johnson posted one of the best stat lines of any in-state receiver tallying 88 receptions in ten games, registering 1,157 yards and ten touchdowns. Johnson remarked that his offensive skills are appealing to the Sun Devil staff, who is in search of ball-hawking defensive backs.

“He said that I play fluent at corner,” Johnson described in a previous interview.” Because I don’t play that much corner, he was saying that for as much experience as I have, it was impressive. I like their (ASU’s) scheme because they have a good mix of press and playing off (the ball). So I like how flexible they are with things because it’s easier to recognize certain stuff. I like their 4-2-5 scheme."

Johnson had offers from BYU, Arizona, Oregon State, San Diego State, Washington, and Washington State, among others. Kansas State, another school offering the Chapparal standout, hosted Johnson for a visit this past weekend.

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