Tony Johnson (wide receiver) facts for kids
Tony Johnson, born on March 12, 1982, is an American football coach. He currently works as a senior advisor and analyst for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. Before becoming a coach, Tony was a talented wide receiver. He played college football for Penn State from 2000 to 2003. He is known for his impressive catches and yards gained during his playing days.
| Current position | |
|---|---|
| Title | Senior advisor / analyst |
| Team | Ohio State |
| Biographical details | |
| Born | September 19, 1983 |
| Alma mater | Penn State |
| Playing career | |
| 2000–2003 | Penn State |
| Position(s) | Wide receiver |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| 2024–present | Ohio State (Analyst) |
| Accomplishments and honors | |
| Championships | |
| CFP national champion (2024) | |
Contents
Tony Johnson's Early Life and College Career
Growing Up and High School Football
Tony Johnson grew up in State College, Pennsylvania. He went to State College Area High School. In high school, Tony played as a quarterback and a running back. He was a very good player and many college teams wanted him to join their programs.
Playing for Penn State
Tony decided to play college football at Penn State. When he joined the Nittany Lions, he changed his position. He became a wide receiver. From 2001 to 2002, Tony was the team's second-choice receiver. He played alongside another great player, Bryant Johnson.
In 2002, Tony had a strong season. He caught 34 passes and gained 549 receiving yards. He also scored three touchdowns. By the start of the 2008 season, Tony was ranked among the top players in Penn State history. He was 10th all-time in receptions with 107 catches. He was also 9th in receiving yards with 1,702 yards. Tony was listed at 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighed 209 pounds. He wore jersey number 11.
Tony Johnson's Family and Coaching Path
His Family Life
Tony Johnson married his wife, Karin Grapp-Johnson, in the summer of 2009. They have three children together. They have two boys and one girl. The family now lives in Ohio. Tony's older brother is Larry Johnson, a former NFL running back. Tony also helps manage his brother Larry's career. He often travels to attend Larry's football games.
Tony is the middle child of three. His parents are Christine and Larry Johnson Sr. His father, Larry Johnson Sr., is also a well-known football coach. Larry Johnson Sr. used to coach high school teams. He is currently the defensive line coach at The Ohio State University.
Coaching and Work Experience
Before joining Ohio State, Tony worked for Fischer Homes in Ohio for ten years. He also spent two years coaching. He was part of the coaching staff at Olentangy Berkshire Middle School. In 2024, Tony joined the Ohio State Buckeyes as an analyst. He is now a senior advisor and analyst for the team.
References
