Taron Johnson Bio
Taron Johnson is an American professional football cornerback for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 27, 1996, in Sacramento, California, he played college football at Weber State. Drafted by the Bills in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Johnson has established himself as a vital player in the team’s defensive lineup. Known for his play as a nickel cornerback, he has received accolades including Second-team All-Pro honors in 2023, showcasing his impact on the field.
Early Life and Background
Taron Johnson grew up in Sacramento, California, where he attended Sheldon High School. He played high school football at Sheldon and was promoted to the varsity squad as a sophomore due to his exceptional talent. Johnson became the first player from his high school to be drafted into the NFL, marking a significant milestone in his early career. After high school, he accepted a football scholarship from Weber State University, where he continued to hone his skills.
Path to American Football
At Weber State, Taron Johnson started five games as a freshman and quickly became a full-time starter. During his sophomore year, he set a school record with 12 pass break-ups, which he matched in his junior year. In his senior season of 2017, he recorded three interceptions, nine pass break-ups, and 49 tackles, earning the title of Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year and consensus First Team All-American honors. His impressive college performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Taron Johnson Career
Early Career (2018-2019)
Taron Johnson was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft as the 121st overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the team, which included a signing bonus. Johnson quickly became the starting nickel cornerback for the Bills, a position that allowed him to showcase his skills in coverage and run defense. In his rookie season, he recorded a total of 42 combined tackles, one interception, and one sack in 11 games.
Breakthrough (2020-2021)
Johnson’s breakout moment came during the 2020 NFL season when he solidified his role as the Bills’ starting nickelback. He had a standout game on December 13, 2020, when he intercepted a pass from Ben Roethlisberger and returned it for a touchdown, marking the first touchdown of his career. He finished the season with 94 combined tackles, one interception, and one touchdown. Johnson continued to excel in the 2021 season, recording 76 combined tackles and a career-high three sacks.
Notable Works and Milestones
Taron Johnson’s signature work includes his performance in the 2021 NFL playoffs, where he intercepted a pass from Lamar Jackson and returned it for a touchdown, tying the longest return in NFL playoff history. This play was described as a franchise-altering moment for the Bills.
Taron Johnson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Taron Johnson has received several nominations and accolades, including being named a Second-team All-Pro in 2023.
Taron Johnson Awards Won
Taron Johnson has achieved notable awards, including the Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 and multiple All-Big Sky honors.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Second-team All-Pro | 1 | 2023 |
| Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year | 1 | 2017 |
| First-team All-Big Sky | 1 | 2017 |
| Second-team All-Big Sky | 1 | 2016 |
| First-team FCS All-American | 1 | 2017 |
Taron Johnson Family
Information regarding Taron Johnson’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Taron Johnson’s personal life details, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed. He remains focused on his professional career with the Buffalo Bills.
