Tyler Johnson had a difficult decision to make this offseason. Like several talented college football stars, the Minnesota receiver had to make the choice: return for one more year with the Golden Gophers or pursue a career in the NFL.

After careful consideration, Johnson decided to return to Minneapolis and complete his collegiate career. It was a decision that elated Gopher fans everywhere.

On Wednesday, Johnson opened up a bit about his decision to return to Minnesota for his last season. In a video captured by GopherHole.com, Johnson explained that earning his college degree — as well as the bright future for the football program — were huge factors in his decision.

“It took awhile because that’s a pretty hard decision to make,” Johnson said about his decision to return. “But, overall, I talked to my family and I’m about this close to school being done. I’ll be the first in my family to get my college diploma, as me being the oldest and my parents as well. That took a lot of consideration.

“Plus, thinking about the future here…we got a lot of players coming back that have played a lot of football so it’ll be pretty fun.”

Johnson had the numbers and the athleticism to make it at the next level this season. He was the B1G’s second-leading receiver, totaling 1,169 yards and 12 touchdowns on 78 receptions in 2018. But he made it clear that there were plenty of factors involved in his decision.

In 2019, Johnson will be one of the top receivers in the B1G again and will be a key piece in what should be an explosive Minnesota offense. He should provide plenty of exciting moments throughout the fall.

Most importantly, though, Johnson decided to return to get his degree and for a chance to enjoy one more season in the Minnesota uniform. You can tell those things are most important to the senior receiver.