On May 2, 2025, Florida Gators’ junior defensive back Dijon Johnson was arrested in Tampa, facing multiple charges that threaten to disrupt the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson was charged with second-degree felony possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, third-degree felony possession of a controlled substance, and misdemeanors for possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis and resisting an officer without violence. Released on a $5,000 bond on May 4, Johnson’s legal troubles cast uncertainty over his availability, posing a significant challenge for a Florida team aiming to build on its 8-5 record from 2024.
Johnson, a 6-foot-1, 196-pound cornerback, emerged as a key contributor in 2024, appearing in all 13 games with five starts. His stat line—25 tackles, two pass breakups, one quarterback hurry, and one tackle for loss—underscored his growing importance in the Gators’ secondary. Projected as a potential starter in 2025, Johnson’s physicality and coverage skills were expected to anchor a defense looking to maintain late-season momentum from wins over LSU, Ole Miss, and Florida State. However, his offseason shoulder surgery already limited his spring practice participation, and this arrest further complicates his path to a starting role.
The University of Florida issued a statement acknowledging the situation, saying, “We are aware of the situation of Dijon Johnson. We will continue to gather facts, cooperate with and monitor the legal and administrative processes.” While the program awaits clarity, reports suggest the charges may not be as severe as initially perceived. According to Swamp247’s Graham Hall, Johnson was unaware of the firearm in the car, which did not belong to him, and the controlled substance may have been creatine, potentially leading to dropped charges. If substantiated, these details could mitigate the impact on Johnson’s status, but the legal process remains ongoing.
The Gators’ secondary is now under pressure. With Johnson’s availability in question, redshirt sophomore Cormani McClain is a likely candidate to compete for the starting cornerback spot. The team’s depth will be tested, especially after losing several defensive backs to the 2025 NFL Draft, including Jason Marshall Jr. and Trikweze Bridges. Florida’s coaching staff, led by Billy Napier, must navigate this setback while integrating new transfers like UCLA’s J.Michael Sturdivant to bolster the roster.
As the Gators prepare for a challenging 2025 schedule, Johnson’s potential absence could weaken their defensive backfield, a critical component against pass-heavy SEC opponents. The program’s ability to adapt—whether through emerging talent or resolution of Johnson’s legal issues—will be pivotal. For now, Florida faces the daunting task of moving forward amid uncertainty, with a key player’s future hanging in the balance as the season looms.
