Feb. 14, 2005

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford head football coach Bill Gray announced the addition of two signees to the Bulldogs' 2005 signing class on Monday.

Harris Johnson, RB, 5-11, 185, Vestavia Hills HS, Vestavia Hills, Ala. - Johnson was named to the Super All-State and Super All-Metro teams as a senior. In 2004, he rushed for 1,806 yards on 228 carries (7.9 ypc.) and 21 touchdowns. He also caught seven passes for 169 yards and four touchdowns. For his high school career, Johnson rushed for 4,449 yards on 649 carries (6.9 ypc.) and 49 touchdowns. Johnson has 62 career receptions for 317 yards and 10 touchdowns. Last season, he was nominated to the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star Game.

Coach Gray on Harris Johnson: "We have felt that Harris Johnson was one of the most productive backs in the Birmingham-area, if not the state. It was a situation where he was as excited about us as we were about him, so we are excited to have him come in and provide a spark in our backfield."

Scott Smith, DE, 6-5, 225, Wetumpka HS, Wetumpka, Ala. - Smith was a three-year starter at defensive end. He was a two-time All-County and All-Metro selection. As a senior, Smith posted a team-high 82 tackles and nine sacks. He was voted his team's Defensive MVP, team captain and Most Outstanding Defensive Lineman.

Coach Gray on Scott Smith: "Scott Smith has a lot of potential, and he has the size, range and speed to be effective for us. We are excited to get him on campus and develop him into a great player here at Samford."

The addition of Johnson and Smith gives Samford 18 signees for the 2005 signing class.