Table of Contents
Josh Johnson Rejoins Washington Commanders: A Familiar Face in a New Era
Veteran quarterback Josh Johnson is back in Washington, signing a one-year deal with the Commanders as he enters his remarkable 18th season in professional football. The 38-year-old is no stranger to the DMV area, having previously suited up for the franchise back in 2018. This move marks another chapter in one of the most unique and enduring careers in NFL history.
The Ultimate Journeyman: 14 NFL Teams and Counting
Johnson, originally a fifth-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has now played for 14 NFL teams—more than any other player in league history. That list includes three separate stints with both the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens, as well as time with alternative leagues like the UFL, AAF, and XFL. His adaptability and professionalism have made him a trusted option across the football landscape.
Josh Johnson’s NFL Journey: Winding Career Path
| Year | Team(s) |
|---|---|
| 2008–2011 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| 2012 | San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, Sacramento Mountain Lions (UFL) |
| 2013 | Cincinnati Bengals |
| 2014 | San Francisco 49ers |
| 2015 | Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Buffalo Bills |
| 2016–2017 | Baltimore Ravens, New York Giants |
| 2018 | Oakland Raiders, Washington |
| 2019 | Detroit Lions |
| 2020 | Los Angeles Wildcats (XFL) |
| 2021 | New York Jets |
| 2022 | Denver Broncos, San Francisco 49ers |
| 2023–2024 | Baltimore Ravens |
| 2025 | Washington Commanders |
Backing Up the Future: Johnson Joins Commanders’ QB Room
In 2025, Johnson will serve as a veteran presence behind Jayden Daniels, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, and fellow backup Marcus Mariota. While Johnson isn’t expected to compete for the starting job, his wealth of experience and steady leadership could prove invaluable for a young, ascending team.
During his recent time in Baltimore, Johnson appeared in six games but attempted only three passes—highlighting his role more as a mentor and emergency option than a regular contributor.
A Career Like No Other: Josh Johnson’s Legacy
Though he’s never been a full-time starter, Johnson has thrown for 2,297 career yards with 13 touchdowns and 16 interceptions, completing 58% of his passes. His journey isn’t about statistics, though—it’s about perseverance, professionalism, and proving you can carve out a meaningful career even when you’re not in the spotlight.
From his college days at the University of San Diego to his time playing in multiple leagues, Johnson has been the ultimate football survivor. His cousin? None other than former NFL superstar Marshawn Lynch, proving that football runs in the family.
Why the Commanders Made the Move
With Jayden Daniels poised to lead the Commanders into a new era, having a veteran like Josh Johnson in the locker room is a smart move. He brings stability, a deep understanding of offensive systems, and mentorship qualities that are hard to find. For a young team looking to build a winning culture, Johnson is more than a safety net—he’s an asset.
How many NFL teams has Josh Johnson played for?
Josh Johnson has played for 14 different NFL teams, making him the most-traveled player in NFL history. Over his 18-year professional career, he’s had multiple stints with franchises like the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens. His adaptability and football IQ have made him a go-to option for teams needing a reliable and experienced quarterback.
How many kids does Josh Johnson have?
As of now, Josh Johnson has kept his personal and family life mostly private. There is no publicly confirmed information about how many children he has. He is known for focusing on his professional career and maintaining a low profile off the field.
What is Josh Johnson’s salary?
In 2025, Josh Johnson signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders. While exact salary details haven’t been made public yet, veteran backup quarterbacks like Johnson typically earn between $1 million and $2.5 million annually, depending on experience, guarantees, and team cap space.
Where is Josh Johnson from?
Josh Johnson is originally from Oakland, California. He played college football at the University of San Diego, where he developed into one of the top FCS quarterbacks before being drafted into the NFL by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008.
Who is the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL (2025)?
As of the latest contract figures, Joe Burrow is the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, earning over $55 million per year after signing a record-breaking extension with the Bengals in 2024. His contract includes massive guarantees and performance bonuses.
Why are they called quarterbacks in football?
The term “quarterback” comes from early rugby-style formations, where player positions were referred to based on how far behind the line of scrimmage they stood. The “quarterback” lined up a quarter of the way behind the line. Over time, the position evolved into the leader of the offense, responsible for calling plays, passing, and managing the game.
Does Josh Johnson have a girlfriend?
As of now, there is no publicly confirmed information about Josh Johnson’s current relationship status. The veteran NFL quarterback maintains a private personal life, and details about his romantic relationships have not been disclosed in the media.