Who Are Will Johnson’s Parents? Meet the Family of Michigan’s 5 Star CB

“It’s a great honor to play for a school my dad once played for.” That one line from Will Johnson says it all—a story written in maize and blue, passed from father to son. As one of CFB’s top cornerbacks, Will’s rise isn’t just about raw talent—it’s about legacy, loyalty, and the unwavering support of a family that breathes Michigan pride. Yes, his father once held it down in the Wolverines’ secondary, and Will carried that torch with an elite swagger. Every play he made is more than a stat—it’s a tribute to where he comes from and who helped shape him.

But after missing the latter half of the 2024 season, Johnson heads into the draft season with a few question marks—but don’t count him out just yet. Though injuries kept him sidelined from both the NFL Combine and Michigan’s Pro Day, he’s set to silence the doubts with a private workout for NFL teams on April 14. Raised in a football-first household, Will’s foundation was built on grit and guidance. As of now, his father’s legacy in the sport and his mother’s unwavering support have shaped him into more than just an elite athlete—they have molded a leader, a competitor, and a future pro ready to prove his worth when the spotlight returns.

Who is Will Johnson’s dad, Deon Johnson?

Deon Johnson, a former standout defensive back for the Wolverines in the 1990s, has been the guiding force behind his son Will Johnson’s meteoric rise. As a 3-time B1G Champion, Deon didn’t just pass down talent—he passed down toughness, leadership, and a championship mindset. Deon’s legendary time at Michigan really paved the way for Will, who now proudly rocks that maize and blue with the same drive. From those home film breakdowns to the pre-game talks, Deon’s been a constant guide in Will becoming one of the top cornerbacks in college football. And don’t forget, Deon was part of that ’93 Rose Bowl victory for Michigan!

He said, “My experience at Michigan was positive. I was part of three Big Ten championship teams. I had a winning record in the big games against Michigan State and Ohio State. I developed some long-lasting lifetime relationships at Michigan. It was a great experience.” Deon Johnson took everything he learned at Michigan, both on and off the field, and used it in life after football, wanting to give back to the community that raised him.

After coaching at Detroit King for a bit, Johnson joined forces with Curtis Blackwell to start Sound Mind Sound Body in 2004. As a big name at the Sound Mind Sound Body (SMSB) Football Academy in Detroit, he’s all about helping shape the future stars of the game.

Off the field, his love for Will shines just as brightly—often seen in heartfelt social media shoutouts, like the one in March when he proudly praised his son for being ranked among the top 10 returning players in CFB. So, whether as a father, coach, or mentor, Deon’s impact continues to echo through every step of Will’s journey.

Who is Will Johnson’s mom, Kafi Kumasi?

Kafi Kumasi, Will Johnson’s mother, is more than just a supportive parent—she’s the rock behind his rise. As a respected professor at Wayne State University, Kafi brought academic excellence into the heart of their home. And while Will chased football glory, she made sure his feet stayed firmly on the ground. “Kafi has always been the one making sure Will stays grounded,” shared Deon once in an interview, a nod to the steady hand she’s played in guiding their son through both books and ball.

But Kafi’s influence goes deeper than discipline and report cards. Her unwavering presence and love have shaped Will’s emotional core. Well, from celebrating birthdays with heartfelt Instagram collages to cheering from the sidelines, she’s been his biggest fan through every chapter. Her structured yet nurturing parenting style struck the perfect balance in a life filled with athletic pressure, helping mold Will into the well-rounded star we see today. So, it’s clear—behind this top-tier cornerback is a mom whose strength and grace built the foundation.

What nationality are Will Johnson’s parents?

Will Johnson’s roots run deep in the heart of Detroit, Michigan, where his parents, Deon Johnson and Kafi Kumasi, continue to reside. Well, proudly representing the Motor City, this dynamic duo has been the backbone of Will’s journey—supporting his dreams on and off the field. Now, while they are American residents, their specific nationalities haven’t been publicly disclosed as of 2025.

There is no doubt that their values of hard work, discipline, and unwavering support have shaped one of CFB’s brightest stars. Will Johnson isn’t just a star—he’s a legacy in motion. Raised by Deon and Kafi Johnson, he’s turned elite talent into dominance on the field. As a freshman, he grabbed three picks and Freshman All-American honors. In Year 2, he locked down receivers, scored a pick-six, and clinched the natty with a title-game interception, earning Defensive MVP. Last season, in just six games for the Wolverines, he put up 14 tackles (12 solo) and snagged 2 interceptions. Now, as Johnson enters the pro league, it’s clear the fam didn’t just raise a player—they raised a phenom.