Local ATH To Walk-On At Boise State

Eagle HS ATH Jacob (Jake) Johnston (Eagle, ID) has decided to walk-on at Boise State and realize his dream of becoming a Bronco. The Bronco football program has been known throughout its history to give local athletes the chance to prove themselves and play at the highest level. Johnston spoke to BroncoCountry.com about his decision to walk-on at Boise State and his future as a Bronco.

Eagle HS ATH Jake Johnston (Eagle, ID) has decided to walk-on at Boise State and realize his dream of becoming a Bronco. "I like how their program is ran," he said. "I wanted to stay close to home and knew I didn't want to leave the State," he added.

Johnston (6'1, 4.5, 190) received interest from numerous programs prior to his decision to become a Bronco. "I was talking to ISU, UI, Weber (State), and Oregon. I could have walked on at ISU or UI. I made my decision for BSU."

The constant theme among recruits is the family atmosphere that the Bronco coaches promote and that's no different with Johnston. "Coach (Bryan) Harsin recruited me," he said. "He's down to earth and treats his guys good. I like him a lot. Coach Pete is the same way. We see him in the weight room and he's always joking with us. He wants us to stay focused and take control of the WAC."

The offseason conditioning program at Boise State helps build the players up both physically and mentally. "They are tough," Johnston said in reference to the workouts. "I like them a lot. They are much more fast paced than HS. Tuesdays are the toughest. I've been working with (former Bronco) Tim Gilligan and it's a whole new change in lifestyle," he added.

Eagle HS QB Taylor Kelly recently committed to Nevada and now two good friends will battle on the gridiron in the future. "I told Taylor I can't wait to play you guys," he said. "I was over at his house yesterday. He's a great QB and going to do some major stuff over there."

One journey has ended for Johnston and another is just now beginning. "Kind of sad since we lost our last game in the state championship," he said. "Kind of sad as well since I can't have another year with Taylor since he's a great QB. I'll miss hanging out with the guys. I'm excited about a whole new lifestyle of football and to start college. Sad to end something and happy to start a new thing."

What does Jacob bring to the Broncos? "I've got good hands, I'm calm, and I can work under pressure. I like being a playmaker on and off the field. I've got pretty good speed too."

The walk-on program at Boise State has flourished throughout its history and each year Bronco fans anxiously await the new names of athletes that will try to prove themselves on The Blue. Is Johnston the next great walk-on at Boise State? It'll be interesting to find out over his career.

BroncoCountry.com will continue to have updates on Jacob Johnston.