The Coogs added another offensive weapon to the 2026 recruiting class, getting the commitment of Strake Jesuit running back John Hebert. Hebert put up ridiculous video game numbers as a Junior. Running for 3,542 yards and 38 TDs in 13 games.
His highlight tape, despite all of the touchdowns, was one of the more boring I’ve ever watched. But that’s a credit to his ability and running style. Most of the time it’s Hebert making a decision to cut up and running by himself for another 40 or more yards.
Hebert runs track and has posted an 11.18 time in the 100m. He says that he will focus on that event as a Senior. Especially to make sure he beats his dad’s, Jason Hebert, time of 10.8. His dad played free safety at Rice and spent some time in the NFL.
His track times are respectable, but don’t tell the story of what makes Hebert a dangerous running back. Top speed is a tangible metric that people can point to, but how quickly Hebert achieves his top speed is his super power. He has the vision to identify where to attack in their zone blocking scheme and get upfield. And almost as soon he gets vertical, he is at his top gear.
“That’s what I work on a lot actually, with my dad. My dad, he’s basically my trainer. That’s a focus that we always work on, acceleration and power,” Hebert said.
Hebert was initially committed to Washington State after taking an official visit to Pullman in June. He admitted that he enjoyed his time there and felt welcome by everyone. But the distance from home was a concern. On top of that, he’s excited to be apart of the class that Houston is putting together.
The most unique thing about talking to Hebert was discovering that he doesn’t own a phone. He has to be the last teenager, especially a high profile athlete, to not be glued to a phone.
“Mainly my parents, they just think it’s a distraction. I got to agree with them for that,” Hebert said.
Talking with Hebert about football and breaking down his highlight tape, it was clear that he puts the time away from a phone to good use. He credited his offensive line for a lot of his yards, but his attention to detail maximized the output.
The Coogs are stacking talent in this class. But the commits that I have spoken to all seem to be serious about football and have a sense of humility. Hebert is no different, and fits right in. But he’ll have to get used to a having cell phone soon.
Watch Johnny Hebert break down his game film
