John Johnson III shows Rams, school children what it means to have GAME

Rams safety John Johnson III talks to kids at the Edwin Markham Middle School in Watts. (Gary Klein / Los Angeles Times)

John Johnson III intercepted a Drew Brees pass in the NFC championship game. He went up against Tom Brady in the Super Bowl.

This week, moments before Johnson was to speak to a large room of middle school students, the Rams veteran safety was as nervous as he ever was facing certain first-ballot Hall of Fame quarterbacks.

“It’s pretty neck and neck right now,” Johnson said, when asked to compare the feelings. “I can do the football stuff easy.”

Less than 48 hours earlier in the season opener at Detroit, Johnson had intercepted a fourth-quarter pass that led to the Rams scoring a go-ahead touchdown. The Rams eventually lost to the Lions in overtime, but Johnson had once again stepped up in a big moment.

Now, on his day off, he was at Edwin Markham Middle School in Watts to encourage students and hand out backpacks donated by a credit union.

Read more: Rams place Puka Nacua, two offensive linemen on injured list and sign help

When Johnson began his presentation, he displayed the poise, personality and leadership that the Rams have enjoyed for the majority of Johnson’s NFL career.

He introduced himself, and then asked students if they were familiar with the acronym: GAME.

“I was at a football camp in middle school, so around your age,” he said. “And I still, to this day, live by that acronym.”

Johnson explained the meaning of GAME: Gratitude, Attitude, Motivation and Education. He asked students for examples of each.

“I’m grateful for you coming to our school,” a girl said.

What about attitude, Johnson asked?

“Put a smile on,” another student said quietly.

“That’s a good attitude!” Johnson said. “A positive attitude!”

The gregarious Johnson, 28, has been an integral part of Rams culture since he was selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL draft out of Boston College. He played four seasons for the Rams before signing…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/john-johnson-iii-shows-rams-095944770.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-09-13 09:59:44

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