A Season of Momentum
Johnston High School’s football program is riding a wave of success that stretches beyond the gridiron. After capturing the Class 4A Iowa High School Athletic Association boys basketball championship earlier this winter, the Dragons added a summer appearance in the state baseball tournament, a run that has infused the school with confidence and community pride.
The 2026 slate, while demanding, is viewed as manageable. Matches against traditional powerhouses such as Waukee, defending Class 5A champion Dowling Catholic, and Ames are on the horizon, but the team also draws confidence from a preseason Top 25 ranking of sixth by High School on SI.
Stars on Both Sides of the Ball
Quarterback Trevin Helming returns as the offensive anchor, having completed 61% of his passes a year ago for 1,895 yards and 20 touchdowns against just three interceptions. His chemistry with leading receiver Henry Clevenger, who topped the squad in receptions, should keep defenses honest.
Running back Emri Jones brings a dual‑threat dimension, having amassed over 800 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns while also contributing 151 receiving yards and a touchdown through the air. The combination of Helming’s precision and Jones’s explosiveness creates a balanced attack that is difficult to contain.
On defense, the Dragons boast 63 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback sacks and 19 forced turnovers from the previous season, including three defensive scores. Special teams standout Ricky Solis Downing has been reliable, converting 40 of 42 extra‑point attempts and nailing nine field goals, while his punting average exceeds 32 yards.
The roster also features standout contributors such as linebacker Bryce Beachem, defensive back Jaden Houser, lineman Kanaan Reinders and a host of future Division I recruits. Their experience, coupled with the program’s recent back‑to‑back 8‑3 football seasons, positions Johnston as a perennial contender in Iowa’s competitive landscape.
Looking ahead, the Dragons aim to translate their early‑season momentum into a deep playoff run. With a blend of seasoned leaders and promising underclassmen, the 2026 campaign promises to be another chapter in Johnston’s rising football narrative.