THIBODAUX, La. — Tommy Stevens wishes he was still playing with Juwan Johnson.

Teammates for four years at Penn State, Stevens and Johnson were roommates and the closest of friends.

They each chose to spend their final college seasons elsewhere, Johnson at Oregon, where he’ll take over as Justin Herbert’s go-to receiver, and Stevens as the starting quarterback at Mississippi State, where his former offensive coordinator, Joe Moorhead, is in his second year as coach.

Stevens took the time to chat with Herbert about Johnson during this weekend’s Manning Passing Academy.

“I can speak for days about Juwan,” Stevens said. “One of the best people you’re going to find in the country. He’s awesome. He’s as good as they come. I lived with him for about two years back at Penn State. He was there for me. I would lean on him, he could lean on me. I think he’s going to have a great year. I’ve been talking to Justin a little bit about him.”

Johnson’s work ethic was heralded by his other former quarterback, Trace McSorley, before he ever arrived at Oregon.

The 6-foot-6 wide out validated the praise immediately during spring practice, working his way up the depth chart to the starting split end spot within a week and making three catches, including a touchdown during the spring game.

Along with freshmen Mycah Pittman and Josh Delgado, Johnson was among three new receivers to join the Ducks during the spring and why there is cause for optimism about improvements to Oregon’s passing game.

“They’re huge weapons,” Herbert said. “They’re guys that came in immediately and made a huge impact. It’s a great problem to have so many guys like that. They’re fighting for playing time and they’re all really good guys.”

Johnson puts in ample time on his own, has joined teammates for work in the community and quickly made new friendships all in a matter of less than three months.

Stevens emphasized how much Johnson would regularly want to go run routes and catch during their off time.

“A big piece that he brings is maturity, his approach,” Stevens said. “His older brother played in the league for a little bit. He’s got a lot of resources there. He brings a real mature approach to his craft, to the team he’s going to be with. I’m sure the more comfortable he gets around the guys the more that leadership role will increase.”