Micah Johnson has transitioned from player to coach in the Canadian Football League (CFL). The seasoned defensive lineman announced his retirement after 13 years in the league on Monday, but he will continue his career with the Saskatchewan Roughriders as their new defensive line coach.
At 37 years old, Johnson concluded his playing days by contributing to Saskatchewan”s victory in the 2025 Grey Cup. Standing six feet one inch tall and weighing 255 pounds, the American athlete was recognized as a league all-star for the second consecutive season last year, accumulating 20 tackles, including two for a loss, and six sacks.
This marks Johnson”s third tenure with the Roughriders, as he previously played for the team in 2019 and 2021 before returning in 2023. His CFL journey began with the Calgary Stampeders, where he played from 2013 to 2018, and he also had a stint with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2021. Although he signed with the B.C. Lions as a free agent in 2020, the season was canceled due to the global pandemic.
Throughout his career, Johnson secured two Grey Cup championships with Calgary in 2014 and 2018. He participated in 178 regular-season games, recording 309 tackles, two special teams tackles, 71 sacks, two interceptions, and six forced fumbles. His impressive record includes being named a CFL all-star on five occasions and a division all-star seven times.
As he embarks on this new chapter as a coach, Johnson brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Roughriders, aiming to enhance the performance of the team”s defensive line.
