Nate Johnson Sheds Light on His Decision to Leave Utah

Nate Johnson opened up on why he chose to enter the transfer portal during an interview with KSL.

On November 26th, Nate Johnson confirmed speculations that he would be entering the transfer portal when it opens on December 4. 

The electric redshirt freshman quarterback was touted as the surefire starter going into the campaign with Cam Rising not available but quickly found himself in a battle with Bryson Barnes that he eventually lost. 

Despite all of the hype, especially surrounding his speed, Johnson only managed 499 passing yards and 3 touchdowns through the air accompanied by a 46.5 QBR. He made the biggest impact with his legs bagging 235 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns on 59 attempts. 

Johnson appeared on the JJ & Alex show and gave his reasoning for closing this chapter of his career.

EXCLUSIVE: Nate Johnson spoke candidly with @JeremiahJensen and @AlexKirryKSL about his decision to leave the Utah Football program. pic.twitter.com/kLMiQRFwYA

— KSL Sports (@kslsports) November 29, 2023

With the bonified leader of the team, Cam Rising, returning for 2024, the chances of Nate having a genuine crack at the starting role were slim to none. Although, if any coach were to get the best out of a player under normal circumstances, it would be Coach Whittingham.

Nate Johnson's arm isn't very impressive however his legs are what make him so lethal on the field. Had he stayed and been open to switching to a position to best utilize his talents, Kyle Whittingham surely would've been the one to bring out his full potential as either an elite speedster in the backfield or a burner out wide. 

Nonetheless, wherever Nate Johnson ends up, he will provide value in offensive unpredictability as he did for the Utes this year, and with one less QB contributing to the backlog in Utah, Brandon Rose and Isaac Wilson will be battling it out for the backup spot going into 2024.

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