A Rising Star with Liberian Roots Set to Make His Mark in the NFL
Emmett Johnson, the talented running back from the University of Nebraska, has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, marking a new chapter in the career of this exceptional athlete of Liberian descent.
Born to a Liberian family, Johnson’s story is one of determination and pride, representing both his heritage and his American upbringing as he ascends in the world of college football.Johnson grew up in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area, where his explosive talent first caught attention at the Academy of Holy Angels in Minnesota.
As a high school star, he dominated the field, rushing for over 2,000 yards and earning Minnesota’s Mr. Football award. This set the stage for his recruitment to Nebraska, where he has developed into a vital part of the Cornhuskers’ offense.
The 2025 season was a breakout year for Johnson. He totaled an impressive 1,451 rushing yards and contributed an additional 370 receiving yards, accumulating 1,821 yards from scrimmage. This averages out to roughly 121 rushing yards per game and nearly 152 total yards each contest. His versatile play style, combining strong vision, balance, and receiving skills, earned him Big Ten Running Back of the Year honors and a spot on the all-conference first team.
Beyond the stats, Johnson’s journey is inspiring. As a Liberian-American, he represents the growing influence of African heritage in American football, bringing a unique perspective and resilience to the sport. As Johnson prepares for the NFL, he carries not only Nebraska’s hopes but also the pride of the Liberian community, making his rise even more significant on the national stage.
Johnson is poised to make a lasting impact in professional football as a dynamic, three-down running back ready for the next level.
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