Johnson began his pro career in the United States Football League (USFL) for the Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars for two seasons.
He was recruited by coach Billy Hite to play football at Virginia Tech.
The Hokies went 31-14 during his career, but due to the time period in which they played, had to settle for only one bowl game.
He also was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the 1st round (18th overall) of the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft of USFL and CFL Players.
It wasn't until 1989 that the Browns then switched up to the more traditional 4-3 defense, at which Johnson started at middle linebacker until 1993.