Shortly after saying goodbye to Ravens legend Ed Reed, Baltimore is paying homage to another impactful player. Longtime outside linebacker Jarret Johnson (also known as JJ) retired as a Raven on Wednesday at a press conference with General Manager Ozzie Newsome, Coach John Harbaugh, and Defensive Coordinator Dean Pees.
The 12-year veteran played nine years with Baltimore before signing with the San Diego Chargers as a free agent in March 2012. Johnson admits that even as a Charger, his heart always remained with the Ravens. Now he will be a permanent fixture in team history.
“He played like a Raven,” said Newsome. “We established that very early on, and to have a guy like JJ to come in and be the poster child for play like a Raven, it’s just as gratifying as it is for having guys who get a chance to go to the Pro Bowl. With JJ, you knew every Sunday what you were going to get. But not only Sunday, you knew what you were going to get between Monday and Saturday also.”
When Harbaugh joined the team during Johnson’s sixth season, he quickly learned what it meant to play like a Raven.
“I’d heard this term play like a Raven,” stated Harbaugh. “I always tried to figure out what that exactly means. I think the best description was epitomized by JJ really every single day.”
JJ epitomized what it meant to Play Like A Raven. “He is a true Raven.” http://t.co/P7LSzTN65C pic.twitter.com/LgrBjvG71X
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) May 13, 2015
A defensive tackle at Alabama and two-time team captain for the first time in school history, Johnson was drafted by the Ravens in the fourth round. He later transitioned into the outside linebacker position where he became a dominant pass rusher.
“We had no idea what position he would play for us but we knew JJ was a football player. That was the reason we ended up drafting him in the fourth round,” according to Newsome. “What we came to find out about JJ is that not only did he fit the term football player, he was also a tempo setter. He was a guy from the very first day that came in and became one of the guys that the other guys would follow.”
Johnson started all 80 regular-season games from 2007-2011, a record tied with former offensive tackle Michael Oher for second place on the team’s all-time list behind only quarterback Joe Flacco (112). He also played in 129 straight games for the Ravens, the most among defensive players and second in team history only to punter Sam Koch (144). His career total of 143 games is sixth on the Ravens’ all-time list.
“This is an honor for me to be sitting here with so many faces that have meant so much to me throughout my career,” Johnson stated at his press conference. “To not be a Pro Bowler, to not be maybe a household name around the country, in this building, in that stadium to be appreciated…it’s validation that you did it right, that you conducted yourself the way you’re supposed to conduct yourself as a player.”
Although Johnson was never selected for the Pro Bowl, his contributions on the Ravens defense didn’t go unnoticed by fans, teammates, and coaches. “I’m glad the team offered me the opportunity to retire as a Raven,” said Johnson.
When asked if there are any hits that stick out to him, Johnson responded with little hesitation and a huge smile on his face: “Hines (Ward)…got him, got him.” Without a doubt, that moment is still considered a defining highlight of his career.
Johnson finished his NFL career with 350 tackles, 25.5 sacks, three interceptions, one touchdown and 11 forced fumbles. He is currently settled with his family in the Florida Panhandle. He continues to keep his options open for future possibilities but made it clear that he is no hurry to make any abrupt decisions.
“I’m enjoying where I’m at right now,” said Johnson. “I get up early every morning. I have a different goal every day, whether it’s just taking care of my two girls or if it’s a project around the house. I fish a lot. I’m on the water a lot. I have some business stuff that I do, not daily, but quite often. I’d love to have some role in this game. I’d love to have a connection with this organization. I love it. There’s nothing better. We’ll see.”
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