Even though Joliet Catholic’s Dillan Johnson now knows where he’s headed for college, the two-sport standout still has a big decision ahead.
Johnson, a star defensive tackle in football and an undefeated three-time state champion wrestler heading into his senior year with the Hilltoppers, committed to Northwestern.
After making that choice last month for football, Johnson has to mull over if he wants to compete in both sports in the Big Ten.
“It’d just be exciting because it’d be like, ‘Wow, I can play both sports I love in college,'” Johnson said. “But honestly, it’s something I’m still trying to figure out if I’m entirely up for.
“Right now, it’s on the table, but we’re still working all of that out.”
While Johnson is unsure about remaining a two-sport athlete, he’s certain Northwestern is the right place for him after meeting with the Wildcats’ football coaching staff, led by head coach Pat Fitzgerald.
“I went there, and I like the D-line coaches — I like the school,” Johnson said. “There are great academics. It’s a great environment and a great group of guys.
“I liked the school overall and I realized it was the kind of place I wanted to be, so it was an easy decision at that point.”
Johnson, who had 39 tackles and five sacks last season for Joliet Catholic, plans to be on the football field for Northwestern in fall 2024.
The question is whether he will follow up that season by wrestling in the winter for the Wildcats.
“There’s no doubt Dillan has the skills and the discipline to pull it off, but the demands of being a college athlete are so high,” Joliet Catholic wrestling coach Ryan Cumbee said. “He’s going to start off with football, obviously, with it being in the fall, and then he’s going to have to figure out if he wants to put that much extra on his plate.
“Being successful in one sport at that level takes a full commitment to that sport for most kids. But Dillan is not most kids.”
Cumbee, a Northwestern graduate, is thrilled to see Johnson become a fellow Wildcat.
“I knew Dillan first and foremost was a high academic kid, and I knew academics meant a lot to him and his family,” Cumbee said. “I also knew he’s a great football player and a great wrestler. So, it was wondering where we can find a landing spot that can utilize all those strengths.
“At the end of the day, Northwestern is the best choice for him. I’m happy for him. He deserves it. Being my alma mater, I’m selfishly excited about it.”
Johnson is following in the footsteps of his older brother, Eric, who’s a defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts.
“He’s been a great role model,” Johnson said of his brother. “It’s not a question of if I can do it or if it’s possible because I’ve seen it done before.”
Joliet Catholic football coach Jake Jaworski sees a bright future ahead for Johnson.
“I think just by being who he is, Dillan is destined for success, whether it’s on the football field or in the classroom,” Jaworski said. “He’s a throwback-type kid.
“He’s not a guy who’s addicted to his phone. He’s not a big social media guy. It’s school, weight room, football and wrestling. He’s just an all-business kid.”
Johnson will continue to weigh his options and plan out his future, but first he’s intent on making the most out of his senior year.
“The main goal this year is finishing off strong,” he said. “This is the last year of high school, so I’ve got to go all the way, go all out. I’m looking forward to it.”
Steve Millar is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.