Two-time defending national junior college champion East Mississippi Community College has picked up a big transfer.
De’Andre Johnson, the former Florida State quarterback dismissed from the Seminoles program this summer, has joined the Lions in Scooba.
Johnson has already signed a National Letter of Intent with the Lions and will enroll for the fall semester, according to the National Junior College Athletic Association’s website.
Johnson was released by Florida State in early July after a video surfaced of the 19-year-old punching a woman in a Tallahassee bar.
He was named Mr. Football in the state of Florida as a high school senior, after throwing for more than 3,700 yards and 47 touchdowns, as well as rushing for almost 400 yards and nine scores. He was the heir apparent to Jameis Winston behind center for the Seminoles before running a foul of the law.
ESPN.com published a story Friday saying Johnson is expected to play for the Lions this fall. The story says Johnson has pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor battery charge.
Johnson replaces Chad Kelly at EMCC. Kelly came to the Lions from Clemson, and is now at Ole Miss after leading the Lions to their second consecutive national title last season.
EMCC head coach Buddy Stephens could not be reached for comment Friday. The Lions begin their season Aug. 27 at home against Southwest Mississippi Community College.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 36 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.