I’ve been bombarded with inquiries of Stafon Johnson and his potential leap into April’s NFL draft.  The root of those questions stem from an NFL.com blog that made it appear that the senior running back’s decision had been set in stone.  The blog, written by Steve Wyche, was based on statements made by one of Johnson’s uncles, and is incorrect.

Contrary to a report released Thursday on NFL.com, Stafon Johnson hasn’t made a decision yet on his future, Coach Carroll announced after Saturday’s practice.—Ben Malcolmson

Wyche reports that Johnson will not petition for a medical redshirt that would allow him another season of college eligibility, which is nothing more than early speculation.  What the academic senior has requested from the NFL is an evaluation and draft projection.  Those results will bring more clarity to the situation and assist in future decisions.  This is not an NFL draft announcement.

Less than two months removed from a life threatening injury and corrective surgery, I have my doubts about NFL feelers providing positive feedback.  And with Johnson just recently receiving medical clearance to workout, a Senior Bowl and NFL combine invite wouldn’t appear likely.  To better position himself for the draft, it would be in his best interest to pursue the medical redshirt and return to the USC roster in 2010.

But be it the NFL or USC, this is still a miraculous story of courage and determination, considering  it wasn’t long ago there was a question of whether he would ever play football again.