Josh Johnson's journey through professional football is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Born on May 15, 1986, in Oakland, California, Johnson attended the University of San Diego, where he played college football under the guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh. His impressive performance at the collegiate level, particularly his senior year, caught the attention of NFL scouts.
In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Johnson in the fifth round. He spent the early years of his career with the Buccaneers, serving primarily as a backup quarterback. During his tenure with Tampa Bay, Johnson had the opportunity to start a few games, showcasing his athleticism and ability to extend plays with his legs.
After his stint with the Buccaneers, Johnson's career took him to several NFL teams. He signed with the San Francisco 49ers in 2012, reuniting with his former college coach, Jim Harbaugh. Although he did not see much playing time, his presence added depth to the quarterback position. Johnson's career continued with brief periods at various teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and New York Jets, among others.
In 2013, Johnson joined the Cincinnati Bengals, where he served as a backup quarterback. His time with the Bengals was short-lived, and he moved on to the San Francisco 49ers once again in 2014. Johnson's ability to adapt to different offensive systems and his willingness to embrace the role of a journeyman quarterback kept him in demand across the league.
Johnson's career also included stints in the United Football League (UFL) and the Alliance of American Football (AAF). In the UFL, he played for the Sacramento Mountain Lions, further honing his skills and maintaining his readiness for potential NFL opportunities. His time in the AAF with the San Diego Fleet provided him with additional playing experience and exposure.
In 2018, Johnson signed with the Washington Redskins, where he had a chance to start several games due to injuries to the team's starting quarterbacks. His performance was commendable, as he led the team to a victory in his first start, demonstrating his ability to step up when needed.
Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his mobility and ability to make plays outside the pocket. His journey through the NFL was characterized by short-term contracts and frequent team changes, but he remained a reliable option for teams in need of quarterback depth. His adaptability and readiness to contribute whenever called upon allowed him to extend his career over a decade in professional football.
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