Jimmy Johnson
Inducted:
1994
Player Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
187 lb (85 kg)
Born:
March 31, 1938
Dallas, Texas, U.S.
Died:
May 8, 2024
San Francisco Bay Area, California, U.S.
Position:
Cornerback
College:
Santa Monica (1957–1958)
UCLA (1959–1960)
Jimmy Johnson was one of the NFL’s finest defensive backs, known for his lockdown coverage and rare versatility. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1961, he played his full 16-year career (1961–1976) with the team.
Early on he contributed on offense as well, making 34 receptions for over 600 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Soon he settled into cornerback, where he flourished. He appeared in 213 games, setting a team record at the time, and intercepted 47 passes, returning them for 615 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson was selected First-Team All-Pro four times (1969–1972), made five Pro Bowls and was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1970s. Known for his athleticism, instincts, and ability to shut down opponents, he became feared by quarterbacks.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994, Jimmy Johnson’s legacy is anchored in consistency, coverage mastery, and team loyalty.
Johnson's Awards and Honors
- 4× First-team All-Pro (1969–1972)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1964–1966, 1968)
- 5× Pro Bowl (1969–1972, 1974)
- George Halas Award (1972)
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame
NFL Records
- Played more games than any other 49ers player at time of retirement (213)
- Known as one of the best man-to-man defenders in history
- Rarely targeted by opposing quarterbacks because of reputation and skill
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1961–1976)
NFL Draft:
1961: 1st round, 6th overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
37
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (1961–1976)
Games played:
213
Starts:
205
Interceptions:
47
Interception yards:
615
Fumble recoveries:
7
Safeties:
1
Touchdowns:
6