Top USC target’s commitment to Michigan could have ripple effect

Defensive end Ron Johnson Jr. of Camden, N.J., a major South Carolina target, committed Thursday to Michigan while on an unofficial visit with the Wolverines.

Johnson attended the Gamecock Showcase camp earlier this month and spoke highly of the Gamecocks at that time, saying they were at the top of his list along with Michigan.

Johnson had planned to name a top five in July and carry the recruiting process on into the fall, but that was before Thursday’s commitment. His decision could also impact teammate and USC receiver target Brad Hawkins Jr., who also has USC and Michigan at the top of his list. Hawkins and Johnson have said they would like to play together in college.

It is still possible Johnson will take other official visits, including one to USC. He was joined on the visit by another USC target, tight end Naseir Upshur of Philadelphia.

This story was originally published June 25, 2015 at 10:29 PM with the headline "Top USC target’s commitment to Michigan could have ripple effect."