Jakob Johnson is trading the scrimmage line for the television studio. At 31, the Stuttgart native has signed with RTL to work as an NFL television expert, with his broadcast debut slated for the upcoming matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs.
A New Chapter in the RTL Studio
The veteran fullback joins the network analysis team following a seven-year career in the National League. But his transition to media does not mean his cleats are permanently hung up. Living with his family in Tennessee, Johnson continues to train independently to stay in playing shape despite currently being without a team.
The Mental Hurdle of Leaving the Gridiron
He has deliberately avoided filing official retirement paperwork with the league. Acknowledging the mental barrier surrounding the end of his playing days, Johnson remains ready for a potential call.
“I am keeping myself fit. But I cannot sit at home and do nothing. Until the official retirement is announced, a small crack is still open. Even if only in my head,” Johnson told the Deutsche Presse-Agentur.
Pioneering the International Player Pathway
Johnson holds a historic place in league history as the first German professional football player to advance to the active roster through the NFL International Player Pathway Program. That developmental initiative paved his way to the New England Patriots, where he carved out a role as a fullback. During his tenure in New England, he scored a regular-season touchdown, marking a historic first for a German offensive player in the league.
Seven Seasons Across Multiple Franchises
Over seven seasons in North American professional football, Johnson has suited up for several organizations. Following his stint with the Patriots, he spent time with the Las Vegas Raiders and the New York Giants before playing for the Houston Texans during the previous season. Since parting ways with Houston, he has remained a free agent while weighing his next moves.
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