Mark Johnson’s college interests span the country.

The linebacker from Dorsey High School in Los Angeles has shown interest in a handful of schools, including Tennessee. He grew up a Nebraska fan and is quite fond of Southern Cal.

Johnson said most of the Pac-10 has recruited him. Oklahoma, Florida, Arizona, Miami, Louisiana State, and UT have also offered him a scholarship to play football.

The 6-foot-4, 230-pounder is a high priority for the Vols who have set a premium on recruiting California.

"It's a good place," Johnson said of UT. "Tennessee has a good tradition. I've grown up seeing them. Tennessee has good fans and they pack every game. They’re up there in the top six or seven."

Johnson said the hometown Trojans have the early lead for his services. He said he has made several visits to nearby USC and UCLA.

"I’m trying to get to a school that can get me to the league," Johnson said, referring to the NFL. "That's my No. 1 priority; that and to get a good education."

Johnson said USC and Miami immediately come to mind when he thinks of programs best suited for preparing college athletes for professional careers.

Florida, California, and Michigan are some of the others hoping to prove their player development merit by expressing more interest lately.

Academically, Johnson said any potential school must have a strong psychology program.

Johnson said staying in California has its advantages.

"I kind of want to because it’s close to home and I know a lot of people out here," he said.

Nebraska could hold a certain allure if the Cornhuskers come calling. Johnson grew up a Nebraska fan thanks to some family ties.

"I grew up liking Nebraska a lot because that’s where my family is from," he said. "My grandma and great grandma, they lived out there. They grew up out there."

Johnson said he has posted a 4.5 40-yard dash time and bench-presses 300 pounds.

He’s not sure if he will attend any football camps this summer. The one certainty is that he is a prospect on a mission — to play in the NFL.

"That’s just my dream," he said. "I want to be able to play at the highest level."