Galloway Native Declares for NFL Draft

A Galloway native is taking a shot at playing professional football.

Austin Johnson will forgo his final year of eligibility with Penn State to enter the NFL Draft, the University announced Saturday night.

The defensive tackle started every game with the Nittany Lions football team each of the last two seasons, and 28 contests overall in his career. The 2015 All-Big Ten second team selection graduated in December, earning his degree in journalism in just three and a half years.

“After much thought and consideration with my family, I have decided that the best decision for me is to forgo my senior season at Penn State,” Johnson said in a statement. “I want to thank Nittany Nation for your support over the last three years. My love for Nittany Nation will be with me always.

“I want to thank all of the coaches who have helped me throughout my college career. I would like to thank Coach [Joe] Paterno and Coach [Larry] Johnson for opening the door for me to attend Penn State and thank you to Coach [Bill] O’Brien for being the rock of the program in a time of need. I would also like to thank Coach [James] Franklin and Coach [Sean] Spencer for supporting me to excel in my position.

“Last but not least, my teammates. Thank you for always being there for me. I will carry my pride as a Nittany Lion with me always.”

Johnson was third on the team with 78 tackles this season. His was third among all NCAA Division I FBS defensive tackles in tackles. It was the highest number of tackles from a Penn State defensive lineman since Jimmy Kennedy had 87 in 2002.

He had at least nine tackles in four different games, and was second on the team with 13 tackles for loss.

He also had 6.5 sacks this season.

Additionally, Johnson registered his first career touchdown with a 71-yard fumble return against San Diego State in a 37-21 win on Sept. 26.

The fumble recovery was the fourth of his career and Penn State’s first fumble recovery for a touchdown since Mike Hull’s 74-yard return vs. Navy in 2012. He tallied a career-high 10 tackles, including eight solo stops, at Northwestern. He also had a sack and two tackles for loss against the Wildcats.

For his career, he had 154 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 24 tackles for loss. He also had four fumble recoveries and five pass breakups in his career.

“Austin has been an impact player on this team and leader for us on defense,” Penn State head coach James Franklin said in a statement. “We appreciate all of his contributions to the program. He has also excelled off the field, earning his degree in just three and a half years. We’re excited to see him continue his career in the NFL and wish him nothing but success.”

Johnson is a St. Augustine Prep alum. He announced his decision following Penn State’s 24-17 loss to Georgia in the TaxSlayer Bowl.

The attached image of Austin Johnson was provided by Penn State University