UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State running back Brandon Johnson has signed a National Football League undrafted free agent contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He participated in rookie mini-camp and signed a free agent deal Friday. Johnson is the ninth player of the 2015 Penn State squad to be drafted or signed by NFL teams since April. He joins former teammate Jesse James on the Steelers roster.
Defensive tackle Austin Johnson (Tennessee, 2nd round), quarterback Christian Hackenberg (New York Jets, 2nd round), defensive end Carl Nassib (Cleveland, 3rd round), defensive tackle Anthony Zettel (Detroit, 6th round) and defensive back Jordan Lucas (Miami, 6th round) were selected in the 2016 NFL Draft. Cornerback Trevor Williams (San Diego), tight end Kyle Carter (Minnesota) and Tarow Barney (New York Jets) inked undrafted free agent deals following the draft.
"Couldn't be happier for Brandon to have this opportunity with the Steelers," head coach James Franklin said. "He was a tireless worker and valued member of our team. Fans really didn't get to see everything Brandon was capable of because he battled some injuries during his time at Penn State, but he has a great chance to show his talent and work ethic at the next level."
Brandon Johnson saw time in 12 games, primarily on special teams in 2015. He also had four carries for 23 yards as a senior. In 2014, Brandon Johnson appeared in six games on special teams with his most extensive time on the kickoff coverage team. He made his collegiate debut in the 2013 season finale after joining the team as a run-on at mid-season.
A native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Brandon Johnson graduated in May with a degree from the College of Education's rehabilitation and human services program.