Ian Johnson

Ian Johnson is a professional football player currently signed as a running back for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). He was born in San Dimas, California on September 25, 1985.

Johnson declared eligible for the 2009 NFL Draft after a 5-year college football career at Boise State University. He went undrafted and was subsequently signed as a rookie free agent by the Minnesota Vikings.

High School Career

Johnson attended Damien High School in La Verne, California. In his senior year, he became Inland Valley's Offensive Player of the Year, L.A. Times All-San Gabriel Valley first team, San Gabriel Valley Tribune All-Area first team, Daily Bulletin Inland Valley All-Area Team, All-Sierra League MVP, and CIF Division II first-team all-league. Johnson also set school records in career rushing yards, season rushing yards and points scored.

College Career

Johnson enrolled at the Boise State University and redshirted for the 2004 season. He began his playing season in 2005. The 2006 season was a career year for Johnson; he was named to the First-Team All-American and the First-Team All-WAC, making him the first Boise State athlete to be named to a major All-American team. He was also considered a dark horse Heisman Trophy candidate.

NFL

Minnesota Vikings

Ian Johnson ran the second fastest 40 yard dash time for a running back at the 2009 NFL Combine with a 4.40. He was signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Vikings.

Ian Johnson's main source of income had been from the sales of crocheted beanies he sold to teammates, fans, and fellow students. According to a November 11, 2006 interview broadcast on ESPN, the cost of each beanie was $15. However, in late 2006, the NCAA later ruled that Johnson could not profit from his growing celebrity status, nor could he donate the proceeds to charity. He had to cease all sales.