He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in March 2012 after his second consecutive Pro Day appearance.

He was a two-year starter at running back for the Elks, earning a team record of 20-1 his junior and senior season under head coach, Ron Ullery.

In 2007, Johnson committed to West Virginia University after being highly recruited by Rich Rodriguez, then, head coach of the Mountaineers.

He received many honors, including Offensive Champion, “Ideal Mountaineer”, as well as being voted Senior Team Captain.

Johnson caught the attention of Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Kevin Colbert at the 2012 WVU Pro Day workout.