Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier has addressed the recent arrest of junior cornerback Dijon Johnson, emphasizing accountability and the opportunity for growth.
Johnson was arrested on May 2 in Tampa, Florida, and faces multiple charges: possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony (second-degree felony), possession of synthetic marijuana (third-degree felony), possession of cannabis under 20 grams (misdemeanor), and resisting an officer without violence (misdemeanor) .
Napier, speaking at the SEC Spring Meetings, confirmed that Johnson remains with the team, participating in summer classes and workouts. He stated that disciplinary measures are being handled internally and that the program is allowing the legal process to unfold. “We’re gonna let things take their course,” Napier said. “We started some of that process with [Johnson] in-house already. He’s back in summer school and he’s working with our team. He’s got good representation and we’ll let it take its course” .
Napier also reflected on the broader implications of the incident, noting, “I think there’s some lessons to be learned, and we’ll keep it at that. I think that hopefully it will be a teachable moment not only for him but for the entire team and for young people in general” .
Johnson, a 6-foot-1, 196-pound junior from Tampa, played in all 13 games last season, recording 27 tackles and two pass breakups. He is projected to be a full-time starter in the upcoming season, pending the outcome of his legal situation and any potential disciplinary action from the program.
The University of Florida has acknowledged the situation and stated that it is cooperating with and monitoring the legal and administrative processes. Johnson has entered written pleas of not guilty to all charges and was released after posting an $8,500 bond .
As the legal proceedings continue, Napier and the Gators’ program are focusing on guiding Johnson through this challenging period, emphasizing personal growth and the responsibilities that come with representing the university.