Draft:Mark Johnson

Early Life and Education
Mark Johnson, nicknamed the "BC bulldozer," was born in 2006 and grew up in Vernon, British Columbia. He attended Vernon Secondary School (VSS), where he began his football career. Johnson started playing football in Grade 9, initially playing various positions before moving to the offensive line in Grade 10. His potential was quickly recognized by Angus Reid, a former B.C. Lions center and assistant coach for the Panthers, who became a significant mentor to Johnson.

High School Career
At VSS, Johnson excelled as a versatile player, contributing significantly to both the offensive and defensive lines. Standing 6’5″ and weighing 260 pounds, he played right tackle, defensive lineman, defensive end, middle linebacker, and long snapper. Johnson was instrumental in leading the VSS Panthers to a win in the 2A Varsity Football Provincial Championship in his final year on the team.

College Recruitment and Commitment
Johnson received interest from several U-Sport Western conference teams and Bryant University in Rhode Island. He ultimately signed an early letter of intent with the Eastern Washington Eagles, marking a significant milestone as the first Vernon Panther to head to the USA to play NCAA Division One football.