Juwan Johnson, the son of George and Ida Johnson, is an American professional football tight end for the New Orleans Saints.
He remained very close to his mother as his father passed away due to a heart attack.
Highlights
- Juwan Johnson’s father suffered from diabetes and lost his life due to a heart attack after more than three years of sickness from a stroke.
- He flew to Eugene two days after burying his father and enrolled at Oregon as a graduate transfer.
- He always has support from his two brothers, Darreus and George Jr., who stand out at Glassboro High.
Juwan began his football career at Glassboro High School and committed to playing college football for Penn State. However, he was transferred to Oregon in his senior year.
He was undrafted in the 2020 NFL draft, and the New Orleans Saints signed him as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2020.
On September 5, 2020, the Saints waived him during the final roster cuts, but he signed to the team’s practice squad the next day.
Juwan was hoisted to the active roster and played against the Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, and Chicago Bears but reverted to the practice squad after each game.
Later, on December 19, he was signed to the active roster and played fourteen games, accumulating 159 yards and 4 touchdowns on 13 receptions in 2021.
Moreover, he signed a two-year contract extension on March 11, 2023.
Behind the Success: Juwan Johnson’s Parents, George and Ida, As Strong Pillars
Tight end Juwan Johnson’s parents provided a loving environment that helped him grow into a talented athlete. They raised him alongside Darreus and George Sr.
George Johnson Sr. suffered from diabetes and passed away due to a heart attack after more than three years of sickening from a stroke.
Juwan was on the field at Penn State’s indoor practice facility when his brother called and said their father, who had been rehabbing from a fall and expected to be discharged, suffered a heart attack.
His father excelled in basketball and ran track. Juwan also played basketball but surprised his family by choosing football. He was good but easily got frustrated with football.
However, George Sr. told him to finish whatever he had started. Juwan chose Penn State because he wanted to be close to home so that his parents could watch him play.
Juwan flew across the country to Eugene two days after burying his father and enrolled at Oregon as a graduate transfer. He has a strong faith, and few people can handle all he has done.
After the tragic demise of his father, Juwan tried his best to cheer his mother. He planned a surprise for her on Mother’s Day when she was at her sister’s house.
The tight-end player is proud of his mother and always happy to see her.
Ida Tolbert-Johnson watched the video of her youngest son on social media, which was made for her, and shared it with the world.
They had always spent holidays together as much as possible.
Nonetheless, his family’s support played a crucial role in his athletic success, and his upbringing contributed to his resilience and determination on the field.
Juwan Johnson Benefited From Being A Little Brother
Born on September 13, 1996, Juwan Johnson grew up with his two siblings. He was born nine years after George Jr. and fifteen years younger than the oldest brother, Darius.
He always had his brother’s support and was motivated to keep up with his big brothers, who were also standouts at Glassboro High.
Darius didn’t play college football but has been a strong mentor.
On the other hand, George Jr. played defensive lineman at Rutgers and also for the New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Detroit Lions, and Minnesota Vikings.
He enjoyed his standout NFL season and earned a decent fortune from his NFL career.
Juwan inspirations are his brothers, who motivated him to be better.
Additional Information
- Juwan Johnson announced that he will undergo foot surgery on June 13, 2024, which raised questions regarding the start of the regular season.
- On July 18, 2024, he was placed on the Active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
- He married Chanen Johnson in 2020, and they have two daughters.
- Juwan has amassed an estimated net worth of $5 million as of 2024.