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Former Kansas LB Steven Johnson Makes Mark With Denver Broncos

Former KU linebacker Steven Johnson was an unlikely candidate to make the Denver Broncos' 53-man roster, but a strong preseason helped him do just that.

By Bryan Kilpatrick
June 12, 2012; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Steven Johnson (57) during Minicamp at the Denver Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-US PRESSWIRE
June 12, 2012; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Steven Johnson (57) during Minicamp at the Denver Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-US PRESSWIRE

University of Kansas product Steven Johnson used an impressive preseason to earn a spot on the Denver Broncos' 53-man roster. He's currently listed on the depth chart as a backup to Joe Mays, but while he'll see plenty of time on special teams, Johnson isn't content with just making it onto the roster alone, as he told Terry Toohey of the Delco Times.

"I’m not done yet," Johnson said. "Before it’s all over, I want to be known as one of the best linebackers of all time."

Those may be considered lofty aspirations for a guy who made his way into the league as an undrafted free agent, but Johnson had a knack for being around the ball during his time at KU, which is obviously key to any linebacker's success. During his senior season, Johnson racked up 120 tackles -- including six for a loss -- while forcing three fumbles and intercepting a pass.

In three preseason games for the Broncos, Johnson made 16 tackles, 14 of which were solo.

For more on the Jayhawks, be sure to visit Rock Chalk Talk. And, for more on the Broncos, head over to Mile High Report.