Tyrell Johnson (born May 19, 1985 in Rison, Arkansas) is an American football safety for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League. He was originally drafted by the Vikings in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played college football at Arkansas State.

Early years

Tyrell played high school football at Rison High School in Rison, Arkansas, competing at both running back and defensive back. As a senior in 2002 he earned All-State and All-Conference honors despite playing with a high ankle sprain. He also helped his team finish with a perfect record and win the Class 8AA title. He finished his career with three interceptions, 2,725 rushing yards, and 49 touchdowns. He also played basketball, starting on his high school's state championship basketball team in 2000, he also ran track.

College career

Johnson played college football at Arkansas State. After being redshirted during his freshman year in 2003, he became a starter in 2004 and never lost his job. During his freshman season he earned Freshman All-American and second-team All-Sun Belt Conference honors. During his sophmore year he led the team in tackles with 112 and earned All-Sun Belt Conference first-team recognition. During his junior year in 2006 he earned first-team All-Sun Belt Conference for the second straight year after recording 63 tackles and an interception. His best season came in 2007 as he earned third-team All-American, first-team All-Sun Belt Conference and was the leagues Defensive Player of the Year after recording 94 tackles and six interceptions.

He finished his career playing in 46 games, starting all of them, with a Sun Belt Conference record 363 tackles, 13 interceptions, and four forced fumbles. He also holds the conferences records for interception return yards in a season with 142 in 2007 and tackles in a game with 25 in 2005.

Professional career

Johnson was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

External links

• Arkansas State bio