Looking for positives for the past season, I noted how frequently Sam got PFL POW for special teams. He now holds the PFL punting season record as well as the VU all-time single season record at 47.13 yards per punt. And it was not like he just brought a tremendous record of performances at Alabama and Jackson State to Valpo. His previous seasonal averages were, according to his bio, under 40 y/p. So he really blossomed in his one year here. Could he be Valpo FB’s next NFL signee?
I have to figure he gets at least a look in camp by some team...even if it is simply so the punter doesn't have to punt all pre season by himself.
Greg Wood got an invite to a Chicago Bears camp/tryout, so I would assume the Sam will get several more with his punting average and kick quality. Unlike most positions, a Punter can gain NFL consideration from just about any school, which is why Valpo is basically Punter U, given our proclivity for stalled offense.
I have to figure he gets at least a look in camp by some team...even if it is simply so the punter doesn't have to punt all pre season by himself.
I agree. One of the things Fox did well was find xfer punters. Hope the next regime does the same.
Well, He’s not gonna end his career at Valpo. He’s in the portal according to a reposted tweet by Paul. Damn!
He should be in the NFL draft
Sam will do just fine in the portal. FBS/FCS rosters have been hard capped at 105 this summer. Meaning thousands of walk ons and preferred walk-ons will be in the portal.
1) several specialists are preferred walk-ons so we probably get another bounce back
2) unless you are a scholarship level player it’s unadvisable to enter the portal this year
Wouldn't ne too shocked if he tests the portal waters and then decides to select for the draft.
How does he have another year? I see that he is a RS Senior already this season. Regardless, if he is allowed to play another season, I don't fault him for leveraging a full season of solid punting to get some FBS looks, where he really belonged in the first place.
Sam Johnson is transferring to USC.
And just named 2nd Team FCS AA.
That's going to be one of our wildest transfer stories to ever come from the Valpo Football program. No idea if he will be the primary Punter, but hopefully he was wise enough to choose his FBS options and be given assurances that he has a good chance at #1.
And, regardless, Valpo still can take credit for producing an All American.
USC is a lateral move? He is replacing an All American punter and will have a great opportunity. As one who went to the same journey, I welcome Sam to the Trojan family. Fight on Sam!
