Transfer Portal Spotlight: Dawson Johnson

Patrick Harkness • July 30, 2026

TE

Dawson Johnson- ODU

@DawsonLJ_

 


Dawson Johnson fits Tulane as a 6’3”, 230-pound modern hybrid tight end with proven college receiving production, reliable hands and route-running, functional blocking, and positional versatility (inline, slot, H-back) who immediately adds depth, competition, and mismatch upside to a depleted TE room alongside Vance Bolyard.



He’s a redshirt sophomore transfer from Old Dominion (Sun Belt) who committed on January 9, 2026, via the portal (entered late December 2025). Originally a three-star high school recruit out of Cherry Creek HS (Englewood/Denver, CO), he signed with Florida as a true freshman (2024, redshirted with no appearances) before moving to ODU. He has three years of eligibility remaining (#19).



Athletic Profile and Scheme Fit:

Tulane’s offense (under head coach Will Hall) emphasizes tight ends who can contribute in 12 personnel packages, sealing edges in the run game while creating mismatches in the passing game through play-action, bootlegs, and option routes. Johnson is an ideal modern hybrid fit


•  Movement and receiving traits: Smooth mover for his size with good speed to threaten vertically, reliable hands on short-to-intermediate concepts (stick routes, seams), and the ability to flex out or operate in space as a chain-mover and safety valve. Early ODU usage (including a TD vs. ranked James Madison) highlighted his comfort getting open quickly against linebackers.


•  Blocking and physicality: 

Willing, technically sound functional blocker who’s not yet a dominant in-line mauler but stays on the field in multiple groupings, perfect for supporting Tulane’s run game while developing into a complete TE.


•  Versatility and intangibles: 

High football IQ (346 offensive snaps as a redshirt freshman) and multi-positional value (inline/slot/H-back). Comes from an athletic family (brothers played D1 lacrosse/football). Tulane targeted portal TEs with immediate production potential to complement bigger in-line types like Bolyard.


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Tulane Green Wave PWO Commit: Brett Paukstis

By Patrick Harkness • July 30, 2026
Class of 27 QB Brett Paukstis 6-0/185 Washington, DC He trains with QB Factory and is positioned for a big senior year that could elevate his stock further. Arm Talent & Passing Ability (Strong for regional level): Paukstis possesses legitimate arm talent with velocity, spin, and the ability to drive throws downfield (including 50+ yard air yards). He makes all the throws, short, intermediate, and deep, with good touch and anticipation. Off-platform accuracy stands out; he can throw receivers open while scrambling or from awkward arm angles. Ball placement is precise, and he layers passes over defenders effectively. Accuracy & Mechanics: High completion rate (mid-to-high 60s) reflects sound mechanics, timing, and decision-making. Quick release and consistent footwork allow him to get the ball out cleanly. He goes through progressions with high football IQ and makes correct reads quickly. Velocity and arm strength continue to improve. Mobility & Playmaking: True playmaker who keeps plays alive when protection breaks down. Excels extending downs outside the pocket, using mobility to create space before delivering accurate downfield throws. Capable of off-platform creativity and arm strength on the run. Not a designed-run heavy QB but adds a valuable dimension through scrambles and creating opportunities in high-leverage moments. Decision-Making, Poise & Leadership: Poised and confident in the pocket with excellent command of the offense. High football IQ, precise decisions, and the ability to spread the ball around. Described as a great leader who elevates those around him; two-time All-Conference performer who has “breathed life” into the program through production and intangibles. Low turnover stretches (e.g., zero in key late-season games) show growth. #RollWave Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
Tulane Green Wave football graphic featuring Cayden Dees in blue uniform running on the field

Class of 2026 Spotlight: Cayden

By Patrick Harkness • July 30, 2026
Bandit 
Cayden Dees 6-3/250 Montgomery, AL 
Cayden Dees is a versatile defensive lineman from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School in Montgomery, Alabama, class of 2026. 
Standing at approximately 6-3 and weighing 250 pounds, Dees brings a blend of size, strength, and explosiveness to the defensive front. He committed to Tulane on November 17, 2025, after initially pledging to Miami (OH) in June and decommitting on October 30. 
Dees was a key contributor to Montgomery Catholic’s back-to-back state championships in 2023 (4A) and 2024 (5A), serving as a two-time team captain. He transitioned from primarily playing offensive tackle during his first three high school seasons to focusing on defense as a senior, where he excelled at both defensive tackle and end positions. 
Dees also competes in track and field, maintaining a 4.1 GPA, which highlights his discipline and work ethic off the field. 
His recruitment drew interest from programs like Appalachian State, Arkansas State, Liberty, Troy, UAB, Western Kentucky, Middle Tennessee, South Alabama, Alabama State, Dartmouth, and Jacksonville State. 
Dees earned recognition as the 2025 Capitol City Player of the Year and was named Defensive Line MVP at the Under Armour Next Football Camp in Nashville. He was also honored as the Ken Bishop - State Farm Player of the Week in Game 7 of his senior season, posting the highest-grade percentage at offensive line while recording 2 sacks on defense.  
Scouting Report: 
Explosiveness and Get-Off: Dees fires off the ball with impressive quickness, using his first step burst to disrupt plays in the backfield. This trait pairs well with his strength, allowing him to collapse pockets and pursue ball carriers effectively. 
Power and Run Defense: He demands double teams due to his ability to anchor against the run. His bench and squat numbers translate to on-field leverage, where he can stonewall offensive linemen and shed blocks. In drills and games, he’s shown the ability to immobilize opponents, rarely losing ground. 
Versatility: Capable of lining up at defensive tackle or end, Dees also brings offensive line experience, which enhances his understanding of blocking schemes. This two-way background makes him a smart, instinctive player who can read and react quickly. 
Motor and Pursuit: High-effort player with good pursuit speed for his size. He chases plays sideline-to-sideline and maintains intensity through the whistle. 
Intangibles: Leadership as a captain, academic excellence (4.1 GPA), and multi-sport athlete (track/field) suggest strong character and athleticism. He’s praised for setting “the standard” at his high school program. #RollWave Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
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