Reports are coming out that Arkansas is targeting FSU running backs coach David Johnson to be the running backs coach in Fayetteville.
Johnson has been with Florida State since Mike Norvell arrived in 2020 and is one of the coach’s most loyal soldiers. He is also the recruiting coordinator for the Seminoles. There is a relationship between Johnson and Arkansas head coach Ryan Silverfield, as both were on Mike Norvell’s staff at Memphis in 2016 and 2017. Silverfield was the offensive line coach and running game coordinator while Johnson coached wide receivers and passing game coordinator.
Arkansas is targeting Florida State’s David Johnson for its running backs coach job, sources tell @CBSSports.Has worked at FSU since 2020. Previously worked in the SEC at Tennessee in 2018 and ‘19. pic.twitter.com/HVBY9CoRZx
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) December 5, 2025
Johnson has had success with his running backs
Most running back coaches are generally elite recruiters. Johnson definitely isn’t that, but his running backs have generally performed well. The high point at the position is obviously Trey Benson, who had over 1,100 yards from scrimmage in back-to-back seasons after transferring from Oregon in 2022. Benson was drafted in the third round by the Arizona Cardinals in 2024. Given FSU’s offensive lines haven’t been a strength during Johnson’s time in Tallahassee, the running backs have done pretty well,…