OFFICIAL: Derek Johnson To Transfer To ASU

As ArkansasVarsity.com has been reporting all weekend, former Hoxie Four-Star defensive tackle Derek Johnson has received a release from the University of Texas. Our sources indicated early Saturday that Johnson had intentions of enrolling at Arkansas State University. We now have confirmation that Johnson will in fact become a Red Wolf.

Johnson confirmed his move to the Jonesboro Sun via telephone late Saturday evening.

"Basically it's a family issue," Johnson told the Sun. "I recently had a little boy who was born premature and basically it's for financial reasons. I'm moving back home where my family can help."

He also told the Sun that he will be seeking a medical hardship waiver from the NCAA. If the waiver is granted, he will be eligible for play in the 2010 season.

Johnson also considered the Arkansas Razorbacks, before making the decision to follow in his fathers footsteps, and attend ASU, according to the Sun.

"With everything going wrong with my son and trying to follow in my dad's footsteps, I thought [ASU] would be a good place to go," he said.

Johnson also informed the Sun that he will attend ASU regardless if he receives the waiver or not, and he will remain in Austin, Texas, for another couple of weeks. He will then make the transfer to Arkansas State from there.

Derek was highly recruited in high school by schools such as Arkansas, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Baylor, and others, but decided to sign with the Longhorns.

Keep checking back with ArkansasVarsity.com for all of your Arkansas State Red Wolves athletic news!