HEADLINING THE HERD: Johnson's dual-threat capability could lift Buffs, Aggies alike
As Fort Bend Marshall gears up for what could be a defining season, all eyes are on senior Kaeden Johnson -- a competitor whose blend of talent and leadership has made him the heartbeat of the Buffs' program.
The dynamic three-star prospect, recently ranked No. 174 nationally in On3’s Rivals300 update, has firmly established himself as one of Texas’s most versatile and impactful high school athletes. Johnson, who announced his commitment to Texas A&M in June, enters his final campaign as the undisputed catalyst of the Buffs’ offense and a cornerstone for Coach James Williams and his staff.
While Johnson’s skillset allows him to line up virtually anywhere on the field, the senior will return under center as the starting quarterback this fall. In 2024, he threw for over 2,100 yards and 25 touchdowns, adding 571 rushing yards and six scores on the ground. His dual-threat capability earned him first-team, all-district honors and solidified his reputation as a genuine offensive weapon.
Teamwise, Marshall compiled a strong 10-3 record in their last campaign, finishing third in the ultra-competitive District 9-5A
Division II—trailing only State Champion Randle and Regional Finalist Iowa Colony. A third-round playoff loss to Iowa Colony ended the Buffs’ postseason run, but it also left the group hungry for more.
With a seasoned leader like Johnson back at the helm, expectations around the Buffalos are understandably high. They’ll hope to channel the spirit of their 2019 squad, which reached the UIL State Final in Arlington, but this year’s path will require its own identity—one built on resilience, execution, and the leadership of players like Johnson.
For Johnson, this final chapter in his high school career isn’t just about chasing wins. It’s a chance to leave a lasting imprint on a program that has shaped him, while preparing for the next level. If his track record is any indication, both he—and Fort Bend Marshall—are ready for the moment.