Florida issues statement on arrest of junior cornerback

The Florida Gators have issued a statement on defensive back Dijon Johnson.

According to Keith Niebuhr of On3, Johnson was arrested on May 2 on multiple charges. Those charges include possession of a firearm during commission of a felony and possession of a controlled substance. He’s also facing misdemeanor charges of possession of cannabis fewer than 20 grams and resisting an officer without violence.

Johnson was arrested late in the evening on May 2 by the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s office and booked early the next morning. He was released on a surety bond on May 4.

“We are aware of the situation of Dijon Johnson,” Florida state in a statement, per Niebuhr. “We will continue to gather facts, cooperate with and monitor the legal and administrative processes.”

This is especially poor timing for Johnson. He underwent offseason shoulder surgery that kept him limited in spring practices, but he is battling with redshirt sophomore defensive back Cormani McClain for a starting cornerback job at Florida. 

Johnson is coming off a career season at Florida, totaling 27 tackles (two tackles for loss) and two passes defended as a sophomore. Depending on how this legal issue plays out, this could impact his standing as a potential starter for the Gators next season.