Now a coach, Leon Johnson and parents reflect on football career

Posted Feb 24, 2012
From his time as a Freedom High four-sport standout, to being drafted as a teenager by the San Francisco Giants, to playing a key part in some of UNC’s glory years on the gridiron and lining up for coach Bill Parcells with the New York Jets as part of an eight-year NFL career, Leon Johnson made a lasting impression on everyone in Burke County who calls themselves a sports fan. (Morganton News Herald)

Related: Football, Tar Heels in the NFL

Jaiden Patterson’s growth fuels UNC defense aiming for faster start
Now entering his junior season, UNC defensive back Jaiden Patterson is building on his late-season success while stepping out of his comfort zone and emerging...
Tue Mar 31, 2026

How Jordan Shipp became UNC Football's most trusted voice
Wide receiver Jordan Shipp returns not just as a captain, but as a leader tasked with helping shape UNC Football's second season under Bill...
Tue Mar 31, 2026

Newsletter: UNC Basketball Coaching Search, Smith Center Debate Tabled, Caleb Wilson To NBA Draft
The North Carolina Men's Basketball coaching search is in full swing, Caleb Wilson is off to the NBA Draft, the Smith Center vs. new arena...
Mon Mar 30, 2026

Video: Inside UNC Football with the Aer Lingus College Football Classic
Aer Lingus College Football Classic Ambassadors Ciarán Kilkenny and Phoebe Schecter go behind the scenes with the UNC Football Program ahead of the Tar Heels...
Sun Mar 29, 2026