In 2026, Jimmie Johnson joined the Howard University football team as offensive coordinator and tight ends coach.
Following his NFL playing career, Johnson embarked on a remarkable 23-year coaching journey at both the collegiate and professional levels. This extensive experience has provided him with a comprehensive perspective of the game, allowing him to effectively guide his players on and off the field.
Before returning to his alma mater, Johnson spent the 2025 season at Morgan State University as assistant offensive line coach and recruiting coordinator.
Prior to joining Morgan State, Johnson honed his coaching skills as the offensive coordinator and running backs coach for the San Antonio Brahmas in the XFL. During his time there, he was responsible for the development and performance of the running backs and shared preparation of the game plan.
Johnson previously worked three seasons (2020-22) as a coaching analyst at the University of Maryland where he was responsible for breakdowns of defensive personnel and scouting reports. He also helped with the development of tight ends.
During the 2020 XFL season, Johnson took on the role of tight ends coach for the DC Defenders. His guidance proved instrumental in the development of Khari Lee, who subsequently secured a contract with the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. Johnson's expertise contributed to the Defenders' impressive performance as they emerged victorious in the East Division before the season was abruptly halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2015, he joined the New York Jets as their tight ends coach, where he continued to make a significant impact on the team's offense.
In 2006, Johnson's NFL coaching career began when he joined the Minnesota Vikings as their tight ends coach. He spent eight seasons with the Vikings, developing and mentoring some of the league's top tight ends.
Johnson took on the role of offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Texas Southern University for two seasons (2004-05). During his time there, he helped guide the team to success, showcasing his offensive acumen.
In 2001, Johnson embarked on his coaching journey as the running backs coach at South Carolina State University. His tenure there laid the foundation for his coaching career. The following year, he moved to Shaw University, where he served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks and wide receivers coach.
Before joining the coaching ranks, he played 10 NFL seasons at tight end (1989-1998).
As a former All-MEAC standout at Howard, Johnson has a deep understanding of the position and its technical intricacies. During his time at Howard, Johnson excelled as a tight end for the Bison. Over four seasons, he amassed an impressive 73 receptions for 1,229 yards and 16 touchdowns. His stellar performance culminated in a first-team All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) selection in 1988, his senior year. He also earned recognition as a Two Time Sheridan Broadcasting Black College All-America in both 1987 and 1988.
While at Howard, he earned a bachelor's degree in consumer studies (1989).
Hailing from Augusta, Georgia, Johnson was raised and educated in the city's T. W. Josey High School.
He is a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity.
