UTEP WR Kavika Johnson talks about changes in career

Change can be a good thing, and for Kavika Johnson, change has been pretty good.

The former Mayfield High School quarterback changed positions during the spring.

He’s now a wide receiver for UTEP.

“If me moving to wide receiver is going to help us win championships, then I’m for it,” Johnson said. “It’s not about me as an individual. It’s about the team.”

In high school and his first two years at UTEP, Johnson was always a quarterback. But now he’s going from throwing the ball to catching it. And that comes with a few challenges.

“I’ve liked it so far. The running is a bit harder and the conditioning and stuff. I’m getting used to it,” Johnson said, “I’m getting the routes down. Sticking them on the grass is a little hard, but when we get back to turf, it’s going to be a lot better.”

UTEP head coach Sean Kugler say it’s been a smooth transition, and he’s been impressed by Johnson’s versatility.

“Now that he’s focused on receiving, he can focus on his craft. He’s been outstanding,” Kugler said, “Mostly for Kavika Johnson, he’s a leader. The kids respond to him, and he’s one of the hardest workers in our program.”

Johnson is just one of several players from the Borderland hoping to help the Miners find success in 2017.
Johnson says it’s a testament to the quality of athletes not just in El Paso, but also in the City of the Crosses.

“Las Cruces, I know it’s a small town, but you’re working hard down there. We know we’re not going to be known for much, so we’ve got to put in our effort everyday, every practice, every lift. There’s so much talent from both cities that the list can go on and on. It’s awesome.” Johnson said.