Cincinnati Bearcats Wide Receiver Isaiah Johnson Primed for Spring Football

The junior wide receiver looks to build on a strong 2022 season as the Bearcats prepare for their inaugural Big 12 campaign.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Cincinnati Bearcats wide receiver Isaiah Johnson is set to play a key role for the team as they enter their first season in the Big 12 conference. The 5-10, 184-pound junior had a solid 2022 season, catching 14 passes for 222 yards and 3 touchdowns. Head coach Scott Satterfield is excited to see Johnson and the rest of the team's new-look offense take the field during spring practices.

Why it matters

Johnson's development will be crucial for the Bearcats as they look to maintain their status as one of the top Group of 5 programs in the country while transitioning to the Power 5 Big 12 conference. The team has a lot of new faces, including transfers and high school recruits, so getting Johnson and the offense on the same page early will be key.

The details

Johnson played the majority of his 195 snaps last season in the slot receiver role, and he made an immediate impact with three catches of 26 yards or more, including two touchdowns, in the season opener against Northwestern State. Satterfield praised the energy and high level of play he saw from the team during the first spring practice, noting that there is a lot of teaching going on as players get accustomed to new schemes and coaches.

  • The Bearcats opened spring football practice on Monday, March 13, 2026.
  • The team will have the week of March 20th off for spring break, but the coaches will be reviewing practice film during that time.

The players

Isaiah Johnson

A 5-10, 184-pound junior wide receiver who played a key role in the Bearcats' offense last season, catching 14 passes for 222 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Scott Satterfield

The head coach of the Cincinnati Bearcats football team, who is excited about the energy and high level of play he saw from the team during the first spring practice.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was a great day, it was fun to get out there. There are a lot of new things happening out there. A new defense, several new coaches, transfers, and high school guys. I thought we had great energy. We practiced at a high level. I saw a lot of really good things out there today.”

— Scott Satterfield, Head Coach

What’s next

The Bearcats will have the week of March 20th off for spring break, but the coaches will be reviewing practice film during that time to continue evaluating the team's progress and development.

The takeaway

Isaiah Johnson's continued growth and leadership will be crucial for the Cincinnati Bearcats as they transition to the Big 12 conference. With a lot of new faces on the team, getting the offense on the same page early in spring practice will be a top priority for the coaching staff.