Derion “Dash” Johnson Picks Stonehill Over the Sun Belt
They’re digging deep in Shovel Town. The second commitment in their 2026 recruiting class proves that Stonehill is able to compete with anyone on the recruiting trail. When you’ve got as much going for you as the Skyhawks do, maybe that’s not so surprising.
Derion “Dash” Johnson, a 5’11”, 220-pound linebacker out of Paramus, New Jersey, chose the Skyhawks over an FBS offer from Southern Miss. That’s not a typo. Stonehill secured a pledge from a Sun Belt-caliber athlete who could have taken the scholarship, taken the branding, and called it a day. But Johnson made it clear: this was about more than just level. NEC Blitz had the opportunity to catch up with Johnson to talk about what drew him to Stonehill and away from the Sun Belt.
“First and foremost,” Johnson told us, “it’s elite private school education and elite football. Best of both worlds.” Indeed. It’s a common misconception that recruiting comes down to- or should come down to- the biggest offer and the biggest brand. A college is a lifetime decision, though, even in today’s era. In many cases, your college choice is why you’re reading our articles.
Stonehill’s staff clearly made a lasting impression. Johnson singled out Coach Kyle Jones for his energy during individual periods and his connection with Head Coach Eli Gardner. His review is a positive one: “I see myself striving in this program.”
And when it came down to making a decision, it wasn’t a hard sell. “Stonehill just made me feel wanted,” Johnson said. “That’s what stood out.”
Johnson’s versatility certainly gives Stonehill options. He’s a do it all linebacker who can play inside the box or come off the edge. The Skyhawks are a program that’s shown some strong development on defense over the past two seasons, particularly with all-NEC Blitz First Team LB Charles Battaglia. It’s always a good thing when a coordinator (also the linebackers coach) can point to a young player and show a potential addition what he could be, and who he could play like with some seasoning.
It’s obvious- we’re excited about Johnson in part because of the opportunity he turned down to commit to Stonehill. That’s for the fans and the media, though. For Stonehill, winning this recruitment isn’t just about checking a box. It’s a statement about who they are and who they plan to be in the coming years.
