Johnson was a graduate of Dorsey High School in Los Angeles, California, and was a two-time All-City selection.

Johnson played for one year at West Los Angeles Community College.

In 2006, he played in 12 games with no starts on defense as a linebacker and on special teams, recording one tackle at the University of Nevada.

In 2008 Johnson played 13 games at linebacker and made 86 tackles (10 for losses) 8 PBU's and one interception for 28 yards, which he returned for a touchdown.

Johnson's brother Jeremiah played at Oregon and signed as an undrafted rookie free agent with the Houston Texans in 2009.