Eric Johnson Bio
Eric Morris Johnson II is an American professional football defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Missouri State Bears and was selected by the Colts in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Johnson has also played for the New England Patriots during his career.
Early Life and Background
Eric Morris Johnson II was born on July 16, 1998, in Normal, Illinois. He later moved to Plainfield, Illinois, where he attended Plainfield South High School. Johnson’s early exposure to football during his high school years laid the foundation for his future career in the sport.
Path to American Football
Johnson played for the Missouri State Bears for six seasons, redshirting his true freshman year. He utilized an extra year of eligibility granted to college athletes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returning for a sixth season. In his final season, he achieved recognition as a second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference player, recording impressive statistics including 43 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and three blocked kicks. This performance helped him transition to the professional level.
Eric Johnson Career
Early Career (2022)
Eric Johnson was selected in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, being the 159th overall pick. His first season with the Colts marked the beginning of his professional career, where he contributed to the team’s defensive line.
Breakthrough (2023)
During his time with the Indianapolis Colts, Johnson established himself as a reliable defensive tackle. He was waived by the Colts on August 27, 2024, but quickly found a new opportunity with the New England Patriots, who claimed him off waivers the following day. His time with the Patriots was brief, as he was waived again on May 14, 2025. However, Johnson returned to the Indianapolis Colts shortly after, showcasing his resilience and determination to succeed in the NFL.
Notable Works and Milestones
Johnson’s signature achievement to date includes being named a second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference player in 2020. His performance in college football paved the way for his selection in the NFL Draft and subsequent professional career.
Eric Johnson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Eric Johnson has received recognition for his performance, including being named to the second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2020, which highlights his contributions on the field.
Eric Johnson Awards Won
Eric Johnson has won the second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference award in 2020, marking a significant milestone in his early career as a football player.
Eric Johnson Family
Information regarding Eric Johnson’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Eric Johnson’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed. Johnson remains focused on his professional career as a football player.





