The BC Lions added import linebacker Mike Johnson to their practice roster, the team announced Wednesday morning.
Johnson played four seasons at the University of North Alabama from 2006-2009. He was named the NCAA Division II's and the Gulf South Conference's Defensive Player of the Year in 2009.
The Panama City, Florida, native collected 113 tackles with 17 tackles for losses and five sacks in 13 games last season.
Johnson's impressive defensive play also earned him a First Team Little All-American selection in Division II, III and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes for the 2009 season.
He was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent, but was released in May.
Johnson won the University of North Alabama's Athlete of the Year Award for 2009-10. He played on teams that combined for an overall record of 44-7. During his time at university he also won two Gulf South Conference Championships in 2006 and 2009.
The six-foot, 225-pound linebacker held a Top 11 national ranking for his entire career with North Alabama. He also led his team in tackles every season he played.
Now a part of the Lions roster, Johnson has the chance to be reunited with some old teammates.
Defensive lineman Dominie Pittman and Montrell Craft are both former North Alabama players.
The Lions host the Saskatchewan Roughriders in their 2010 season home opener on Saturday at 7 p.m. PST.
