Johnson Joins Big Green Staff as Cornerbacks Coach

HANOVER, N.H. — Sammy McCorkle, the Robert L. Blackman Head Football Coach, announced on Friday the addition of Mike Johnson to staff as cornerbacks coach. Johnson has extensive experience at multiple institutions, most recently serving as cornerbacks coach at Norfolk State.

"I could not be more excited about joining the Dartmouth football family," said Johnson. "I'm extremely thankful to Coach (Sammy) McCorkle and Coach (Don) Dobes for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of this elite institution's program. I look forward to helping our student-athletes and this program achieve success, both on and off the field."

While at Norfolk State, Johnson managed all aspects of the cornerbacks position group. Along with his work with the cornerbacks, he assisted in all aspects of special teams for the special teams coordinator. Johnson produced two All-Conference cornerbacks, including one HBCU Legacy Bowl participant.

Prior to Norfolk State, Johnson served as assistant coach at McNeese State during the 2022 and 2023 seasons where he managed all aspects of the defensive backs position group — safeties, cornerbacks and nickels — while also playing a role in special teams. In 2023, Johnson produced one All-Conference defensive backs and McNeese finished second in the conference in defensive pass efficiency rating. The year prior, McNeese saw a defensive back earn All-Conference honors.

Johnson came to McNeese State from Valdosta State where he helped the Blazers to the 2021 NCAA Division II National Championship Game as the team's defensive backs coach. During that run, Johnson coached safety Mondrell Jefferson, who earned All-Super Region Two honors. Christian Matthew was named first team All-GSC. Two other of his defensive backs were named to the second team. Matthew was also selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL Draft.

"I was impressed by Mike throughout the interview process," said McCorkle. "He has a deep and detailed knowledge of the corner position and brings energy, passion and a great ability to build relationships with staff and players. With less than a month until we start spring ball, we're looking forward to being back on the field and getting to work."

Prior to Valdosta State, Johnson coached at Huntingdon College where he served as the defensive backs coach from 2016-18. During his time there, he coached three All-Conference defensive backs in 2016 and 2017, with one All-League honoree in 2018. As a team, Huntingdon earned its third straight USA South Conference title and advanced to the NCAA Playoffs for a third consecutive year. Huntington finished No. 1 in the USA South Conference in defense in both 2016 and 2017.

Johnson was a four-year starting cornerback at Bryant University, helping the Bulldogs to their most successful season in program history during his senior year, coming in at No. 21 in both the Coaches and Sports Network polls. Bryant finished its season 8-3 for its best record since moving to Division I FCS.

In 2024, the Big Green wrapped up their fourth Ivy League Championship in the last five seasons, finishing 8-2 and 5-2 in the Ivy League while capturing their Ivy-record 22nd all-time title.

Dartmouth football fans can get a jump on the 2025 season by securing their season tickets for next fall when the Big Green attempt to defend their Ivy League title and win their fifth conference crown in six seasons. To place your deposit today, visit the Dartmouth Athletics Ticket Office website or call 603-646-2466.

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