April 29, 2008

JACKSON, Miss. - Jackson State's senior wide receiver was laying on the couch dozing off when he got the call from the Minnesota Vikings on draft day.

What he did during the draft
Prior to his name being called in the sixth round of the NFL Draft Johnson tried to stay busy to keep his mind off being selected by a team.

"During both days of the draft I went to the Walter Payton Wellness Center and worked out," said Johnson. "But the draft was on the TVs in the Payton Center, so I went home and listened to music."

Being Drafted by the Vikings
"I thought that a few other teams would take me. But I did have good talks with the receivers coach at the combine. I think this is the best fit for me."

Off the field reputation
"A lot of teams mentioned that they knew my reputation off the field. That I am a family man and a God fearing person. All I want to do is play football. The Vikings don't have to worry about any bad habits with me. In my life is God, family and football.

Possibility of Playing with Tavaris Jackson
"I look forward to catching up with him. We are both from SWAC school and we each in our own way have a lot to prove on the field. I think we both will have similar agendas, making names for ourselves.

Coach Scott, who was Alabama State's strength coach when Jackson was playing for the Hornets, is going to hook me up with him."

Skills and abilities he will bring to the NFL
"I think I will bring more speed and quickness than is expected, as well as my pass catching ability as a receiver. Also as a special teams member I can make something out of nothing. But as much as anything I will bring a workman-like attitude. I know I have to prove myself."

What's next
"I will leave for Rookie Camp, which will take place Thursday. I will continue doing what I have always done, which is work hard.