He then graduated from McKinley High School, and earned a full athletic scholarship to attend the University of Missouri, Columbia.
During his years at Columbia, Johnson was recognized as a premier defensive back, including Big 8 All Star.
Johnson’s professional football career lasted five years, ending with the Miami Dolphins in 1987.
During his career, Johnson was the Lions' defensive captain and earned numerous awards, including Player of the Week.
Following his retirement from pro football, Johnson joined Sherwood Medical Company, which is now Covidien, as the National Sales Manager for the Athletic Sports Medicine Division.