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Conner Johnson Oregon bound
Bulldog will team up with brother in college
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Conner Johnson will continue his playing career at Southern Oregon University. Johnson signed his national letter of intent with the Raiders last Wednesday. - photo by Contributed to the Courier

Conner Johnson's older brother Caden starred at receiver at Ceres High and earned a scholarship to Southern Oregon University.

Conner will team up with Caden on the gridiron this fall.
The 6-foot-tall 205-pound tight end committed to the Raiders on Jan. 29.

He signed his national letter of intent with the NAIA school during a special ceremony inside Phil de la Porte Gymnasium last Wednesday at Ceres High.

"He's always been my No. 1 supporter," Conner said while talking about his brother. "He pushes me to work harder. He motivates me. I thank him for that."

Conner had a productive three-year career as a member of Ceres High's varsity football team.

Johnson ranked second in the Western Athletic Conference in receptions (31), yards (392) and touchdowns (4) during his final season with the Bulldogs. He was selected to the WAC First Team.

He garnered second-team all-league recognition as a junior.
Conner's career totals were 103 receptions, 1,246 yards and 10 TDs.

"I'm extremely proud of myself for working so hard and achieving a goal I set for myself," Conner said. "Hopefully, me signing motivates all the upcoming players for Ceres High."

Caden played varsity football at Ceres High for two seasons (2012, 2011).

He developed into one of the top receivers in the Stanislaus District.

He earned first-team all-conference honors his senior year. Caden snagged 67 passes for 876 yards and seven TDs

"There was definitely some pressure following in his footsteps," Conner said. "He was such a successful athlete coming out of Ceres High. I used it as motivation. I strived to be just as good as or better than him."

Accompanied by parents Brett and Robin, Conner took his first official visit to Southern Oregon, Jan. 28-29.

"I've gone to almost every single home game the past four years," Conner said. "I instantly fell in love with the town, college and coaching staff. Knowing where I'm going is a big relief. I'm finally making my goal a reality. It's still hard to believe. I get to play football at my dream school."

The Raiders went 5-6 and placed fourth in the Frontier Conference (5-5) in 2016.

Southern Oregon posted a sub-.500 record for the first time since 2010.

Conner might see playing time in 2017.

"They're extremely interested in my long-snapping skills," he said. "As of right now, I'm their only long snapper. That gives me hope I'll get to play my freshman year."

Conner and Caden have never played together on the same team before.

"He's super excited," Conner said. "We plan on being roommates."