University of Central Oklahoma Athletics

Devin Johnston was hired in 2025 to lead the cornerbacks position for Central Oklahoma.

A former standout at Ottawa University in Kansas, Johnston comes to UCO after serving as a graduate assistant coach for Emporia State. Johnston holds a bachelor’s degree in sports studies with a concentration in coaching from Ottawa. He received his master’s degree in science and health from Emporia State.

Johnston played football for the Ottawa Braves from 2018-2022 and was a 5x KCAC All-Conference Selection, 2x Team Captain, and earned AFCA/AP NAIA All-American honors in 2021. Over his playing career (2018–2022), he totaled 19 interceptions, 32 pass breakups, and 191 tackles — cementing a reputation as a reliable, high-IQ defensive back.

Johnston worked with an Emporia State staff that won 16 ball games over the past two seasons. He led the cornerback room that included D2CCA All-American Jaaron Joseph, who was the first All-American cornerback in school history. Joseph, along with Montrell Wilson the year before, earned All-MIAA honors under Johnston’s guidance.

Johnston is originally from Leavenworth, Kansas and graduated in 2018.