Keyonteze “Tez” Johnson is a promising wide receiver who has attracted attention in college football and now in the professional ranks. Born in Alabama in 2002, Johnson’s path has been shaped by perseverance, strong performances, and an inspiring personal story.
He played at Troy before transferring to Oregon, delivered standout seasons, and declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. In that draft, he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This blog explores his life, career milestones, stats, challenges, influences, and potential in 11 structured headings to provide a well-rounded portrait of Tez Johnson.
Early Life and Background
Tez Johnson was born May 18, 2002, in Birmingham, Alabama. His childhood had hardship: his father died when he was very young, and he grew up in subsidized housing in Pinson, Alabama. At age 15, he began living with the family of Bo Nix (a quarterback) whose father had coached him in high school. That arrangement gave him stability, mentorship, and a brotherly bond with Bo Nix, who became his adoptive brother.
High School Performance and Recognition
Johnson played high school football at Pinson Valley High School in Alabama. As a junior, he caught 106 passes for 1,457 yards and 10 touchdowns, including a single game with 17 catches for 247 yards. In his senior year, he had 62 receptions for 1,140 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning all-state honors and appearing in the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game. He was regarded as a three-star recruit, ranked among the top prospects in Alabama.
College Start at Troy University
Johnson committed to Troy University and played there from 2020 to 2022. As a true freshman in 2020, he appeared in 11 games and recorded 18 receptions for 211 yards. In 2021, he led Troy in receptions with 67 catches, 735 yards, and 4 touchdowns; he was named third-team All-Sun Belt. In 2022, he put up 56 receptions for 863 yards and 4 touchdowns, earning honorable mention all-conference honors.
Transfer to Oregon and Impact
After the 2022 season, Johnson entered the NCAA transfer portal and decided to join the Oregon Ducks, where his adoptive brother Bo Nix was quarterback. At Oregon, Johnson quickly became a key receiver. In 2023, he made 86 receptions for 1,182 yards and 10 touchdowns. In 2024, he had 83 receptions for 898 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors and MVP in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Statistical Highlights and Records
Over his collegiate career, Johnson compiled impressive numbers. He totaled 310 receptions for 3,889 receiving yards during his time at Troy and Oregon. At Oregon, he set near-program records in receptions in a season (86 in 2023) and was among their top career receivers in yards and touchdowns. His performance in the 2024 Big Ten Championship Game was exceptional: 11 receptions for 181 yards and a touchdown, earning MVP honors.
NFL Draft Selection and Combine Assessment
Tez Johnson declared for the 2025 NFL Draft following his 2024 season. He was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 7th round, 235th overall. At the combine and in scouting reports, some concerns were raised about his speed (4.51s 40-yard dash) and size (5’10”, ~165 lbs). Still, scouts saw potential in his route skills, hands, and ability to gain yards after catch.
Transition to the NFL and Buccaneers Role
As a rookie with the Buccaneers, Johnson fights for a roster spot among a deep wide receiver room. He is also seen as a potential slot receiver and special teams contributor. Through early 2025 games, he has recorded 6 receptions for 112 yards and 1 touchdown. His strong performance in limited snaps indicates he can carve out a role if he proves consistent and dependable.
Playing Style, Strengths, and Weaknesses
Johnson is known for crisp route running, reliable hands, and agility after the catch. He is not a burner, so his straight-line speed is a relative weakness, and his lighter frame raises durability questions. He makes up for that with competitiveness, field awareness, and good separation in short to intermediate zones. His versatility and mental toughness are also cited as positive traits by coaches and scouts.
Personal Life, Faith & Influences
Beyond football, Johnson is a Christian and has spoken about his faith’s role in guiding him. His adoptive relationship with Bo Nix is often highlighted: though not formally adopted, they regard each other as brothers.
Johnson has noted gratitude toward his foster family, coaches, and support system for believing in him through hardship. He also keeps a social media presence (Instagram, X) where he shares personal reflections, faith, and glimpses into his journey.
Challenges, Injuries & Setbacks
Johnson’s main challenges are how he adapts to the physicality of the NFL and proving durability over long seasons. His 4.51s 40 time raises concerns about whether he can consistently separate at the highest level. he has also had minor injuries in college, but luckily nothing career-derailing.The transition from stand-out college receiver to contributing pro demands adaptation, consistency, and opportunity in games. NFL.com+1
Future Prospects and Legacy Aspirations
Looking ahead, Johnson’s goal is to grow into a dependable NFL receiver over the next few seasons. His potential path includes carving out a role in the slot, contributing on special teams, and eventually becoming a regular starter.
If he continues improving, he may overcome early concerns about speed and frame. His story — from hardship in Alabama to the NFL — positions him as an inspiring figure. He may inspire young athletes who face adversity. Over time, his on-field achievements and character could define his legacy in football.
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