top of page
alcolm
Explore Malcolm Johnson Journey
Welcome to the inspiring world of Malcolm Johnson Jr, where accomplishments and creativity merge. Discover his story through captivating photos and insightful articles.
My life
Welcolme ...
Childhood
Born in Washington, D.C women's Hospital , and raised in Maryland, I am the proud son of Malcolm Johnson Sr. and Marquita Johnson, and I have two amazing sisters, Mone and Quita. Growing up, I was a highly active and curious kid, spending countless hours outside exploring and playing with my neighborhood friends. My parents introduced me to sports early on football, track, baseball, basketball, and even karate to keep me focused and out of trouble.
Sports taught me discipline, sacrifice, and resilience. I remember going to bed early for track meets while family gatherings were in full swing or turning down time with friends because I had training. But whenever I could, I embraced the chance to just be a kid.
This upbringing shaped me into someone who values hard work, time management, and commitment while never forgetting the importance of staying grounded, enjoying life, and building connections with others.
Sports taught me discipline, sacrifice, and resilience. I remember going to bed early for track meets while family gatherings were in full swing or turning down time with friends because I had training. But whenever I could, I embraced the chance to just be a kid.
This upbringing shaped me into someone who values hard work, time management, and commitment while never forgetting the importance of staying grounded, enjoying life, and building connections with others.
St Stephens & St Agnes
I attended St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School in Alexandria, Virginia, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academics and abundant resources. The tuition was more than most colleges a year, and commuting an hour each way daily was a significant adjustment. On top of that, adapting to the school’s environment as a Black male in a space where most of my classmates and teachers looked nothing like me came with its own challenges. However, these experiences shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined, helping me develop resilience, focus, and the ability to adapt to new situations.
Academically, St. Stephen's & St. Agnes pushed me to my limits. I took physics as a 9th grader and barely passed an eye-opener considering my previous school hadn’t prepared me for this level of difficulty. The workload was intense, and balancing it with everything else often felt overwhelming. But through perseverance, I learned how to manage my time and stay disciplined.
Athletically, my high school journey was nothing short of transformative. As a football player and track athlete, I worked harder than I ever thought possible. I woke up early to train, often working out twice a day, and sacrificed free time, family gatherings, and outings with friends to excel in sports and keep up with my schoolwork. I rarely did anything other than school and sports—my schedule left little room for anything else.
Track, in particular, became a space where I thrived through sheer hard work and dedication. Those early mornings and late nights were challenging, but they paid off in ways I’m proud of. I earned over 40 Division 1 offers for football and track, and every day my phone buzzed with calls, texts, and messages from college coaches. Having recruiters like Nick Saban come to see me was an incredible experience, but it also came with pressure. I stayed grounded by remembering what got me there: sacrifice and relentless effort.
Despite the excitement, my journey wasn’t without setbacks. My sophomore year, I broke my collarbone and missed most of the football season. That experience could have derailed me, but instead, it fueled my determination to come back stronger.
My senior year presented another challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic. I finished high school online while dual-enrolled in college, navigating one of the most uncertain times in recent history. Through it all, I learned to adapt, stay focused, and push through adversity.
Looking back, high school shaped me into someone who values hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. It wasn’t easy balancing academics, sports, and life, but it taught me how to face challenges head-on and use them as stepping stones toward success. Those years laid the foundation for who I am today disciplined, resilient, and ready to take on any challenge. Thank You SSSAS
Academically, St. Stephen's & St. Agnes pushed me to my limits. I took physics as a 9th grader and barely passed an eye-opener considering my previous school hadn’t prepared me for this level of difficulty. The workload was intense, and balancing it with everything else often felt overwhelming. But through perseverance, I learned how to manage my time and stay disciplined.
Athletically, my high school journey was nothing short of transformative. As a football player and track athlete, I worked harder than I ever thought possible. I woke up early to train, often working out twice a day, and sacrificed free time, family gatherings, and outings with friends to excel in sports and keep up with my schoolwork. I rarely did anything other than school and sports—my schedule left little room for anything else.
Track, in particular, became a space where I thrived through sheer hard work and dedication. Those early mornings and late nights were challenging, but they paid off in ways I’m proud of. I earned over 40 Division 1 offers for football and track, and every day my phone buzzed with calls, texts, and messages from college coaches. Having recruiters like Nick Saban come to see me was an incredible experience, but it also came with pressure. I stayed grounded by remembering what got me there: sacrifice and relentless effort.
Despite the excitement, my journey wasn’t without setbacks. My sophomore year, I broke my collarbone and missed most of the football season. That experience could have derailed me, but instead, it fueled my determination to come back stronger.
My senior year presented another challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic. I finished high school online while dual-enrolled in college, navigating one of the most uncertain times in recent history. Through it all, I learned to adapt, stay focused, and push through adversity.
Looking back, high school shaped me into someone who values hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. It wasn’t easy balancing academics, sports, and life, but it taught me how to face challenges head-on and use them as stepping stones toward success. Those years laid the foundation for who I am today disciplined, resilient, and ready to take on any challenge. Thank You SSSAS
Auburn University
Attending Auburn University was one of the most transformative chapters of my life. Coming from Maryland to the South was a major adjustment—the culture was vastly different from what I was used to. Part of the reason I chose Auburn was to push myself out of my comfort zone, knowing that real growth comes from embracing challenges. Ironically, one of the biggest reasons I picked Auburn was its perceived stability, but after my first season, the head coach was fired. This instability, combined with having five different head coaches and five different wide receiver coaches during my time there, made it extremely challenging to build continuity and thrive in an offense. Each new coaching change brought a different philosophy and set of expectations, requiring constant adaptation and resilience.
Despite these challenges, my time at Auburn was filled with meaningful experiences and relationships. I formed lifelong friendships with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups, which enriched my time there in ways I’ll never forget. These are bonds I will carry with me forever, as they became a support system through the ups and downs of college athletics and life.
Athletically, Auburn pushed me to my limits. As a leader in the wide receiver room, I embraced the responsibility of setting an example for younger players and maintaining a strong work ethic, even amidst uncertainty. Off the field, I took on leadership roles that extended beyond football. I was a Connect Leader, helping freshman student-athletes transition into college life, and I played an integral role in creating a Black Student-Athlete group at Auburn, providing a space for support and empowerment. Attending the Black Student-Athlete Summit twice—once in Houston and once in Los Angeles—helped me gain a broader perspective on how athletes can create change and build community.
My time at Auburn was not without its share of physical challenges. On the first day of spring football one year, I broke my collarbone—again—and had to undergo surgery. This injury, along with other setbacks like hamstring strains and a high ankle sprain, tested my mental and physical toughness. Recovery was tough, especially while managing the demands of playing at one of the most competitive programs in the country. Yet, every challenge made me stronger and taught me the value of persistence and resilience.
Even before arriving at Auburn, I had to navigate an intense schedule. My senior year of high school was disrupted by COVID-19, forcing me to finish classes online while dual-enrolling at Auburn. Balancing the academic rigor of St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes with the demands of SEC football taught me time management and perseverance at a whole new level.
It was during this time of reflection and adversity that the idea for Start a Conversation was born. Experiencing the isolation of the pandemic, the pressure of college sports, and the cultural challenges of moving to the South made me realize how important genuine human connection is. I wanted to create a movement that encourages people to connect deeply, to spark conversations that build understanding and empathy.
I also created a podcast called Behind the Helmet with a close friend, DK. The podcast gave us a platform to shed light on athletes' lives off the field—the behind-the-scenes struggles, triumphs, and realities that most fans don’t see or understand. It was a way to bridge the gap between athletes and their communities while fostering meaningful dialogue about the human side of sports.
Through all the highs and lows, Auburn taught me about resilience, adaptability, and the power of connection. Most importantly, it gave me a family of lifelong friends who have had a lasting impact on my life. It wasn’t an easy road, but it was one that shaped me into the person I am today ready to face challenges, embrace growth, and make a positive impact in everything I do.
Despite these challenges, my time at Auburn was filled with meaningful experiences and relationships. I formed lifelong friendships with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups, which enriched my time there in ways I’ll never forget. These are bonds I will carry with me forever, as they became a support system through the ups and downs of college athletics and life.
Athletically, Auburn pushed me to my limits. As a leader in the wide receiver room, I embraced the responsibility of setting an example for younger players and maintaining a strong work ethic, even amidst uncertainty. Off the field, I took on leadership roles that extended beyond football. I was a Connect Leader, helping freshman student-athletes transition into college life, and I played an integral role in creating a Black Student-Athlete group at Auburn, providing a space for support and empowerment. Attending the Black Student-Athlete Summit twice—once in Houston and once in Los Angeles—helped me gain a broader perspective on how athletes can create change and build community.
My time at Auburn was not without its share of physical challenges. On the first day of spring football one year, I broke my collarbone—again—and had to undergo surgery. This injury, along with other setbacks like hamstring strains and a high ankle sprain, tested my mental and physical toughness. Recovery was tough, especially while managing the demands of playing at one of the most competitive programs in the country. Yet, every challenge made me stronger and taught me the value of persistence and resilience.
Even before arriving at Auburn, I had to navigate an intense schedule. My senior year of high school was disrupted by COVID-19, forcing me to finish classes online while dual-enrolling at Auburn. Balancing the academic rigor of St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes with the demands of SEC football taught me time management and perseverance at a whole new level.
It was during this time of reflection and adversity that the idea for Start a Conversation was born. Experiencing the isolation of the pandemic, the pressure of college sports, and the cultural challenges of moving to the South made me realize how important genuine human connection is. I wanted to create a movement that encourages people to connect deeply, to spark conversations that build understanding and empathy.
I also created a podcast called Behind the Helmet with a close friend, DK. The podcast gave us a platform to shed light on athletes' lives off the field—the behind-the-scenes struggles, triumphs, and realities that most fans don’t see or understand. It was a way to bridge the gap between athletes and their communities while fostering meaningful dialogue about the human side of sports.
Through all the highs and lows, Auburn taught me about resilience, adaptability, and the power of connection. Most importantly, it gave me a family of lifelong friends who have had a lasting impact on my life. It wasn’t an easy road, but it was one that shaped me into the person I am today ready to face challenges, embrace growth, and make a positive impact in everything I do.
Bowling Green State University
After my time at Auburn, I transferred to Bowling Green State University in Ohio a much smaller school with fewer resources than I was used to. The environment was a stark contrast: colder weather, fewer activities, and a quieter campus. Despite these differences, I believed in the vision of winning a championship with the team. Unfortunately, we fell short of that goal, and not achieving it was heartbreaking, especially knowing we had the talent and capability to win.
Still, my time at Bowling Green was an important chapter in my journey. I learned how to adapt to a new environment and make the most of the opportunities in front of me. Transitioning from a big program like Auburn to a smaller one wasn’t easy, but it taught me humility, resilience, and how to lead no matter the circumstances.
While there, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Education—a milestone I’m incredibly proud of. During this time, I continued to grow my movement, Start a Conversation, while also developing a new business idea that I’m excited to launch in the future.
Now, I’m focused on the next step in my journey: the NFL. I’m currently training to make that dream a reality, preparing to compete at the highest level of football. Playing in the NFL has always been a dream of mine, and I’m determined to make it happen.
The transition to Bowling Green wasn’t easy, but it reinforced the importance of persistence, belief in myself, and the willingness to adapt. Every step of my journey has prepared me for the next, and I’m ready to take on whatever comes my way.
Still, my time at Bowling Green was an important chapter in my journey. I learned how to adapt to a new environment and make the most of the opportunities in front of me. Transitioning from a big program like Auburn to a smaller one wasn’t easy, but it taught me humility, resilience, and how to lead no matter the circumstances.
While there, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Education—a milestone I’m incredibly proud of. During this time, I continued to grow my movement, Start a Conversation, while also developing a new business idea that I’m excited to launch in the future.
Now, I’m focused on the next step in my journey: the NFL. I’m currently training to make that dream a reality, preparing to compete at the highest level of football. Playing in the NFL has always been a dream of mine, and I’m determined to make it happen.
The transition to Bowling Green wasn’t easy, but it reinforced the importance of persistence, belief in myself, and the willingness to adapt. Every step of my journey has prepared me for the next, and I’m ready to take on whatever comes my way.
NFL
On April 27, 2025, I got a call from the Cleveland Browns.
They asked if I had received an invite to a camp. I hadn’t but they explained what it was about. I asked how long I had to decide, and they gave me a little time. I hung up the phone and sat with it.
Truthfully, I was torn.
At that moment, I wasn’t even sure if I wanted to keep playing ball. I talked to my community the people who know me best and they said, “Why not give it a shot?” So I called back and said, Let’s rock and roll.
The Browns flew me out. And when I arrived and saw the shuttle bus waiting with the Browns logo printed big on the side it hit me. This is real. That moment was special. A childhood dream right in front of me.
I got fitted for a helmet, signed the paperwork, handled the medicals, got the playbook and just like that, we were off. Meetings. Prehab. Practice. It was time to show up and show out.
Walking into the locker room, seeing the team gear, it was like, Wow this is an opportunity a lot of people dream of.
Day one was solid. We competed. I was excited.
But day two? Day two was special.
I made one of the best catches of the camp one of those highlight-reel moments. But strangely, that same day was also my hardest day mentally. I was drained. Not physically spiritually. I started asking myself: Is this really what I want?
Later that night, sitting alone in my hotel room with the playbook open in front of me, I felt something deep. A kind of knowing. Not fear. Not doubt. Just truth:
This isn’t it.
And that’s wild to say. Because most people spend their whole lives chasing that NFL opportunity and here I was, in it, with everything in front of me… and I felt ready to walk away.
Was it selfish? Or was it self-awareness?
I’m leaning toward the second.
When they told me I didn’t make the team, I wasn’t crushed. In fact, it felt like relief. Because deep down, I knew I didn’t really want to keep playing. Not anymore.
And here’s the truth:
I thought football was the dream. But I’ve come to realize my purpose is bigger than that. I’m called to change the culture of my generation (Gen Z). I’m called to speak life. To build something that heals people. To serve God’s vision, not just my own.
The NFL wasnt part of the journey if it was I would be there. And I’m not ashamed to say that.
You weren’t meant to do everything.
You don’t have to follow what everyone else thinks you should do.
You have your own journey. And that’s a blessing.
So I WAS IN THE NFL FOR 3 days...
They asked if I had received an invite to a camp. I hadn’t but they explained what it was about. I asked how long I had to decide, and they gave me a little time. I hung up the phone and sat with it.
Truthfully, I was torn.
At that moment, I wasn’t even sure if I wanted to keep playing ball. I talked to my community the people who know me best and they said, “Why not give it a shot?” So I called back and said, Let’s rock and roll.
The Browns flew me out. And when I arrived and saw the shuttle bus waiting with the Browns logo printed big on the side it hit me. This is real. That moment was special. A childhood dream right in front of me.
I got fitted for a helmet, signed the paperwork, handled the medicals, got the playbook and just like that, we were off. Meetings. Prehab. Practice. It was time to show up and show out.
Walking into the locker room, seeing the team gear, it was like, Wow this is an opportunity a lot of people dream of.
Day one was solid. We competed. I was excited.
But day two? Day two was special.
I made one of the best catches of the camp one of those highlight-reel moments. But strangely, that same day was also my hardest day mentally. I was drained. Not physically spiritually. I started asking myself: Is this really what I want?
Later that night, sitting alone in my hotel room with the playbook open in front of me, I felt something deep. A kind of knowing. Not fear. Not doubt. Just truth:
This isn’t it.
And that’s wild to say. Because most people spend their whole lives chasing that NFL opportunity and here I was, in it, with everything in front of me… and I felt ready to walk away.
Was it selfish? Or was it self-awareness?
I’m leaning toward the second.
When they told me I didn’t make the team, I wasn’t crushed. In fact, it felt like relief. Because deep down, I knew I didn’t really want to keep playing. Not anymore.
And here’s the truth:
I thought football was the dream. But I’ve come to realize my purpose is bigger than that. I’m called to change the culture of my generation (Gen Z). I’m called to speak life. To build something that heals people. To serve God’s vision, not just my own.
The NFL wasnt part of the journey if it was I would be there. And I’m not ashamed to say that.
You weren’t meant to do everything.
You don’t have to follow what everyone else thinks you should do.
You have your own journey. And that’s a blessing.
So I WAS IN THE NFL FOR 3 days...
bottom of page