Tim Johnson (linebacker) facts for kids

Tim Maurice Johnson, born on February 7, 1978, used to play professional football. He was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). The Baltimore Ravens signed him in 2001. He played college football at Youngstown State. Tim also played for the Chicago Bears, Oakland Raiders, and Calgary Stampeders.

Playing Professional Football

Tim played professional football for seven years. He was with the Baltimore Ravens and Chicago Bears. He also played for the Rhein Fire in NFL Europe. In 2002, Tim helped the Oakland Raiders reach Super Bowl XXXVII. During that game, he blocked a punt. The Raiders then returned it for a touchdown. His teammate, Jerry Rice, even named him Special Teams Player of the Year. Tim finished his career in 2009 with the Calgary Stampeders in Canada.

He was also known for doing a funny impression of his teammate Shannon Sharpe. This happened on the TV show Hard Knocks in 2001.

After Playing Football

After his playing career, Tim Johnson started new projects. He works to make football safer for young players. He also gives speeches to inspire people.

Head Impact Prevention Football League (HIP)

Tim Johnson is the CEO of the Head Impact Prevention Football League (HIP). This league wants to change how football is played. Tim uses his NFL experience to help. HIP Football focuses on safety, especially for kids.

The league uses special helmets and shoulder pads. They also remove the face-mask from helmets. This helps prevent head-to-head contact. HIP Football is still 11-on-11, like regular football. But players learn to avoid hitting with their heads. Instead, they use a two-hand tag on the hip or side. This helps kids learn the game safely. They can play fast while learning important skills. These skills help them become smarter players.

Keeping a healthy mind and body is very important. This helps kids succeed in school and in life. HIP Football teaches these lessons while playing.

Motivational Speaking

Tim Johnson often gives speeches. He travels around the country to talk to young people and adults. He shares his story to motivate them.

International Polo Tour

Tim Johnson enjoys watching polo. He has been following the 2024 International Polo Tour. He hopes to play in the 2025 season.

Coaching Career

Tim Johnson returned to his old college, Youngstown State. He worked there as the Director of Player Personnel. In 2021, during a game, Tim accidentally bumped a player. Because of this, he was not allowed on the sidelines for the rest of that season.

Early Life and College

Tim Johnson grew up in Fairfield, Alabama. He graduated from Fairfield High School in 1996. He was a great athlete in high school. He played football, baseball, and basketball.

After high school, he went to college. He attended the University of West Alabama and East Mississippi Junior College. Then, he moved to Youngstown State University in Ohio. He played football there for two seasons. He became a star linebacker. In 2000, he was a finalist for a top defensive player award. In 2010, he was added to the Youngstown State Athletics Hall of Fame.

His professional football journey began in 2001. The Baltimore Ravens signed him. He also appeared on the HBO show HARDKNOCKS.