Josh Johnson’s Unbelievable NFL Journey: 15 Teams, 16 Years, and One Unmatched Career
In a league where careers are often measured in seasons, not decades, Josh Johnson’s path through the NFL is something else entirely. The veteran quarterback has done what almost no one else in league history has-he’s suited up for 15 different NFL teams.
That’s nearly half the league. And while he’s never been a franchise cornerstone, his staying power speaks volumes about his resilience, adaptability, and the value he brings inside a quarterback room.
Johnson’s latest chapter comes with the Washington Commanders, marking his second stint with the franchise. He first landed in D.C. back in 2018, and now, seven years later, he’s back-this time signing a one-year deal ahead of the 2025 season.
For most of the year, he held down the third-string spot. But when injuries sidelined both Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota, Johnson was called into action, making his first start since 2021 when he was with the Ravens.
That moment wasn’t just about filling in-it was another reminder of how rare his journey has been. Johnson may not have the accolades of a longtime starter, but his story is one of quiet endurance in a league that rarely offers second chances, let alone fifteenth.
From San Diego to the NFL: A Draft Day Underdog
Johnson’s NFL story began in 2008 when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him in the fifth round of the draft, 160th overall. Coming out of the University of San Diego-a small-school program rarely associated with NFL talent-Johnson had already turned heads with his college numbers.
He completed 724 of 1,065 passes (68%) for 9,699 yards, 113 touchdowns, and just 15 interceptions. Those are video-game stats, even for a non-Power Five quarterback.
Then came the 2008 NFL Combine, where Johnson showcased his athleticism with a 4.53-second 40-yard dash and a 33.5-inch vertical-both top marks among quarterbacks that year. That performance helped solidify his draft stock, and Tampa Bay made the move, trading down with New England to grab him.
No one could’ve predicted what would come next.
A Career Unlike Any Other
Since entering the league, Johnson has had one of the most unconventional careers in NFL history. He’s played for 15 different franchises over 16 years, including multiple stints with some teams. His longest continuous stretch came with the team that drafted him-four seasons with the Buccaneers from 2008 to 2011.
But the team that’s called his number the most? That would be the San Francisco 49ers, who have signed him four separate times: in 2012, 2014, 2020-21, and 2022. Whether as a practice-squad arm or an emergency backup, Johnson has consistently found ways to stay on teams’ radars.
To date, he’s appeared in 32 NFL games, starting nine. His record as a starter stands at 1-8, with 205 completions on 353 attempts (58.1%) for 2,270 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions.
Here’s a look at his NFL timeline-yes, it’s a long one:
- Buccaneers (2008-2011)
- 49ers (2012) *
- Browns (2012)
- Bengals (2013)
- 49ers (2014) *
- Bengals (2015) *
- Jets (2015) *
- Colts (2015)
- Bills (2015)
- Ravens (2016) *
- Giants (2016)
- Texans (2017)
- Raiders (2018) *
- Redskins (2018)
- Lions (2019) *
- 49ers (2020-2021) *
- Jets (2021)
- Ravens (2021)
- Broncos (2022)
- 49ers (2022)
- Ravens (2023-2024)
- Commanders (2025)
(*Indicates offseason or practice-squad member)
And it’s not just the NFL where Johnson has stayed active. He’s also played in the United Football League (Sacramento Mountain Lions, 2012), the Alliance of American Football (San Diego Fleet, 2019), and the XFL (Los Angeles Wildcats, 2020). Wherever there’s been football, Johnson’s been ready to suit up.
The Business Side: Career Earnings
Despite the lack of long-term starting gigs, Johnson has made his time in the league count financially. His most recent deal with the Commanders-a one-year contract worth $1.422 million-brought his career earnings to $12,071,785. That breaks down to roughly $276,427 per game played.
Here’s how those earnings have stacked up across his many stops:
- Buccaneers
- 49ers
- Browns
- Bengals
- Jets
- Colts
- Bills
- Ravens
- Giants
- Texans
- Raiders
- Redskins/Commanders
- Lions
- Broncos
While the exact numbers per team vary, the big picture is clear: Johnson has carved out a career that’s as financially sustainable as it is unique.
Why Josh Johnson’s Career Matters
It’s easy to overlook players like Johnson-guys who don’t dominate headlines or Pro Bowl ballots. But his journey is a masterclass in what it means to be a professional.
He’s the quarterback you call when you need someone who knows the playbook by Tuesday and can run the offense by Sunday. He’s been a mentor, a scout-team warrior, a fill-in starter, and everything in between.
In a league that churns through quarterbacks faster than ever, Johnson’s ability to stay ready and stay relevant is a testament to his work ethic and football IQ. His story isn’t about chasing stardom-it’s about carving out a role and doing it well enough that teams keep calling, year after year.
Fifteen teams. Sixteen seasons.
One unforgettable ride. Josh Johnson’s NFL career might not fit the mold, but that’s exactly what makes it worth celebrating.