Saskatchewan Roughriders offensive lineman Daniel Johnson had one goal above and beyond anything else over the offseason, something aimed to make him more valuable to his CFL team.
“Being able to play multiple positions was my thing. You can’t be a one-trick pony,” he said to reporters in Regina on Wednesday. “That was my focus.”
Johnson worked on the required techniques, so he could be counted on at various places in front of quarterback Trevor Harris. All that hard work has paid off.
The third-year Rider is expected to get the call at left guard in Saturday’s rematch against the Edmonton Elks in favour of Zach Fry, who’s week to week with a knee injury. That assignment is one spot over from left tackle, where he made his CFL starting debut last season.
“This is my job now,” Johnson said. “Whatever’s required, I’ve got to do. It’s exciting. Being able to play multiple positions is a challenge, but it’s a great challenge.”
It hasn’t been the smoothest transition to pro football for the Purdue University alumnus.
He spent the 2024 campaign on the practice roster after being selected by the Roughriders in the fifth round of that year’s draft. His CFL career has been mired by injuries, and he’s mostly been the sixth lineman when he’s been on the active roster.
Being healthy has allowed him to put his refined skills to use now. Still, there’s a lot to think about given he’s got to be prepared to play at several spots.
“Football’s a learning sport, and I love learning,” the 26-year-old said. “That’s the big thing with me is being able to learn and understand the game, understand more positions, understand the offence. It’s been awesome.”
He’s still mastering some of aspects of the CFL game. Born in a refugee camp in Nairobi, Kenya, Johnson and his family moved to London, Ont., when he was 1. Despite being a National, he’s more attune with the American rules from his time in the NCAA.
The Riders coaches have a white hat that’s worn by one member of the staff in practice that reads, “Report for D.J.” The point there is to remind him to check in as an eligible receiver. Johnson takes the joke in stride.
“It’s awesome to be able to be part of the offence and be trusted with our team and our coaches,” he said.
He’s certainly gaining Corey Mace’s trust. The head coach has noticed tangible year-over-year growth from Johnson.
“He’s not wet behind the ears anymore,” Mace said to assembled reporters. “He’s been able to play tackle for us. He’s been able to play the XO. He’s been able to play guard for us. He’s intelligent. He’s got great feet.
“When he’s been able to play, he’s played at a high level. It’s been a steady trajectory for him in doing so. Love the path that he’s on. Sky’s the limit for that kid.”
He’s got to get on the field first to showcase those talents. Johnson has put himself in a better position to do that thanks to being better prepared to play multiple positions.
“It’s always next man up. Having a brother down sucks,” Johnson said. “The aim is to win every week. The coaches are counting on you. You’ve got to be counted on.”
