Eric Johnson

Eric Morris Johnson II (born July 16, 1998) is an American professional football defensive tackle. He played college football for the Missouri State Bears, and was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL draft. He has also played for the New England Patriots.

Early life Johnson grew up in Normal, Illinois and later moved to Plainfield, Illinois where he attended Plainfield South High School.

College career Johnson was a member of the Missouri State Bears for six seasons and redshirted his true freshman season. He decided to utilize the extra year of eligibility granted to college athletes who played in the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic and return to Missouri State for a sixth season. In his final season he was named second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference after recording 43 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 3 blocked kicks.

Professional career

Indianapolis Colts (first stint) Johnson was selected in the fifth round with the 159th overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2022 NFL draft.

Johnson was waived by the Colts on August 27, 2024.

New England Patriots Johnson was claimed off waivers by the New England Patriots on August 28, 2024.

On May 14, 2025, Johnson was waived by the Patriots.

Indianapolis Colts (second stint) Johnson was claimed off waivers by the Colts on May 15.

Minnesota Vikings On April 29, 2026, Johnson signed with the Minnesota Vikings. He was released on August 19.

Atlanta Falcons On August 21, 2026, Johnson signed with the Atlanta Falcons. He was released on August 29.