James Johnson (born May 5, 1980) is an American former professional gridiron football player.
| No. 19 | |
.jpg) Johnson returning an interception for the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2007 | |
| Date of birth | May 5, 1980 |
|---|---|
| Place of birth | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Career information | |
| CFL status | International |
| Position(s) | DB |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lb (84 kg) |
| US college | Arkansas State |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 2006–2008 | Saskatchewan Roughriders |
| 2009 | Winnipeg Blue Bombers |
| Career highlights and awards | |
| CFL West All-Star | 2007 |
| Awards | 2007 Grey Cup MVP |
Johnson did not play high school football. He started playing for West Los Angeles Junior College, but was not given any equipment until he made the team as a defensive back, after being switched from running back. Arkansas State University then gave him a scholarship.
Johnson was signed as a free agent by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2006, and dressed for a total of 15 games, starting seven at cornerback. His college coach had sent a videotape to former Riders general manager Roy Shivers. "My college coach gave Mr. Shivers a call," said Johnson. "Mr. Shivers didn't really get a chance to see any tape on me, so he decided he was just going to bring me to camp. If I didn't perform he was going to send me home right away. I probably had the best training camp since my first year playing."[1]
Johnson was named the Most Valuable Player of the 95th Grey Cup on Nov 25, 2007 after intercepting a record three passes, including one for a 30-yard touchdown. His defensive efforts helped lead the Saskatchewan Roughriders to a 23–19 victory over their CFL Prairie rival Winnipeg Blue Bombers.[2] It was the first time since 1994 that a defensive player was awarded the Grey Cup's top individual title. Johnson received a $10,000 bonus in cash for his efforts.
"I could never imagine this. That's the first time I've ever had three interceptions in a game."
It was only the Roughriders' third national football championship in 15 Grey Cup appearances.
On February 16, 2009, Johnson was traded to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in exchange for a draft pick in the 2011 Canadian College Draft.[3]
Johnson became a free agent on February 15, 2010.
References
edit- ^ "Johnson steps up game and makes history". Canada.com. November 27, 2007. Archived from the original on November 3, 2012. Retrieved November 27, 2007.
- ^ "James Johnson joins Bombers in trade". CBC Sports. February 16, 2009. Retrieved October 29, 2013.
- ^ "Riders deal defensive back James Johnson to Blue Bombers for 2011 draft pick". The Canadian Press. February 16, 2009. Retrieved February 17, 2009.[dead link]