Vaughan Monroe Johnson (March 24, 1962 – December 12, 2019) was an American professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles. He also was a member of the Jacksonville Bulls in the United States Football League (USFL). He played college football for the NC State Wolfpack.

Early life

Johnson was born and raised in Morehead City, North Carolina and played scholastically at West Carteret High School. He played collegiately for the North Carolina State Wolfpack, where, as a senior, he was honored by The Sporting News as a first-team All-American.

Professional career

Johnson was selected by the Jacksonville Bulls in the 1984 USFL Territorial Draft, where he played the 1984 and 1985 USFL seasons. He was also selected by the New Orleans Saints 15th overall in the 1984 NFL Supplemental Draft of USFL and CFL Players. He joined the Saints to play the 1986 NFL season after the USFL folded. Johnson spent eight years with the Saints, starting 98 games, while collecting 12 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 5 fumble recoveries. He was a four-time Pro Bowler, from 1989 to 1992, while with the Saints and also a member of the vaunted Dome Patrol linebacker corps. Johnson finished his career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1994, appearing in four games. In 2000, he was enshrined in the Saints Hall of Fame, and in 2011, he was selected for the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.

Death

Johnson died from kidney disease on December 12, 2019, at age 57.