Phinatics.com

Paris Johnson
5/25/01

Paris Johnson is a weakside linebacker for the Miami Dolphins. This off-season he was allocated by the Dolphins to play for the Rhein Fire of the NFL Europe league. Paris was having a good season until he got injured (partial lateral meniscus tear) during a game on May 12. A few days after his surgery, conducted by Dr. Larry LeMack of the Alabama Sports Medicine Clinic of Birmingham, I had the privilege of eating lunch and talking Dolphins football with the 25 year old Paris.

Paris expects to be back in playing condition in 3-4 weeks. If the Rhein Fire make it to the World Bowl, he expects to be able to play. Paris says he will play in pre-season Dolphin games, and wants to be 230lbs. by camp. He's going to focus on making Special Teams at a minimum.

Paris played safety for Miami of Ohio. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the '99 draft. After he was released by the Cards, Miami gave him a call and switched his position to LB and gave him the utility number of 49. This wasn't the first call that Paris had taken from Miami. He was on the phone with the Dolphins in the 5th round of the '99 draft when JJ decided to gamble on Cecil Collins instead of taking Paris.

phinatics.com: How do you feel about your chances of staying on the roster this season?
Paris Johnson: It's tough, but I'm up for it. Moving from safety to LB is like moving from WR to RB. The NFL is the top level with serious competition. I'm up for the challenge.

phinatics.com: You were having a good season in NFLE; how much of a setback do you consider your injury?
Paris Johnson: Surgery is not a setback; it is a way to focus on getting stronger and improving the little things in my game. My wife (pregnant with their first child) mailed me some game film. I have the game film from the Miami vs. Arizona game played in '99, as well as all the AZ game tapes from when I was there. An injury can be a red flag, but the recovery time and the way you come back is what matters.

phinatics.com: Have you had any contact with the Dolphins organization since you have been here?
Paris Johnson: Yes, Trainer Kevin O'Neil called, and I got a get well basket (from Eddie Jones, the Miami Dolphins trainers, and the Miami Dolphins). Before I started NFLE, Coach Wannstedt told me not to worry about what I eat, just eat. I weigh 210lbs. now, and he wants me to be around 230lbs.

phinatics.com: Do you have a LB in the NFL that you try to model yourself after?
Paris Johnson: Dewayne Rudd. I like what he brings to the game. He plays physical and has great coverage ability. Dewayne has the intensity you need at linebacker.

phinatics.com: Did you ever consider playing in the XFL?
Paris Johnson: Yes, for the LA Extreme.

phinatics.com: What's been the toughest thing about living in Europe?
Paris Johnson: Mostly the food. I got used to eating lots of bread. It's difficult to talk to family back home because you want to call at the appropriate time. It's hard to get internet access to get transaction information.

phinatics.com: What's it like playing for crowds in Europe?
Paris Johnson: The games are packed, loud, and the fans are great.

phinatics.com: What's the stress level like at NFLE knowing you are close to playing in the NFL?
Paris Johnson: I like to play the game. It's all about making strides and growing as a player. I improved every game until the injury, so stress was at a minimum. Moving to LB grows my stock and I'll be better in the long run. I can be a LB who can play safety.

phinatics.com: Has the NFLE helped your chances of staying on the Dolphins roster?
Paris Johnson: You lose an opportunity to learn Miami's defensive schemes, so in one aspect you gain (experience) and one you lose, but you can learn later.

phinatics.com: What do you see as your strength at the LB position?
Paris Johnson: My will, effort, hustle, commitment to being the best player I can be, and maximizing my potential. I am willing to do what it takes to help the Dolphins win. Special Teams, whatever. I want to be the best at whatever position they play me.

phinatics.com: Have you ever collected sport cards or memorabilia?
Paris Johnson: I used to collect football and baseball cards in the early 90's. I know all the rosters and numbers from back then. I remember Louis Oliver, Irving Fryar, Marino, I know all of them.

phinatics.com: Do you still have those cards?
Paris Johnson: No, passed them down to a cousin.

phinatics.com: Do you mind signing autographs for the fans in Europe?
Paris Johnson: I don't mind signing, they stay in the cold after the games. I also sign at NFLE public appearances.

phinatics.com: Are you good friends with any other Dolphins?
Paris Johnson: Deshone Mallard, my personal barber at NFLE. He keeps me looking good, I'm gonna miss him.

phinatics.com: What is your favorite football memory?
Paris Johnson: Beating North Carolina at NC the first game of the season.

phinatics.com: What player do you consider the hardest to play against? Hardest to tackle?
Paris Johnson: David Boston is hard to cover. You can't touch him. He's fast. At LB, I haven't found anybody yet, tackling is one of my strengths.

phinatics.com: Have you had much interaction with Coach Wannestedt or Bates?
Paris Johnson: Personal workout and contract signing.

phinatics.com: On the current Dolphins roster, who do you target to replace?
Paris Johnson: We all have to feed our families, so I try not to count bodies or lose focus on myself. I'm not looking to replace anyone, I just want to help the team best as I can.

phinatics.com: What are your thoughts on the Miami Dolphins organization?
Paris Johnson: The facilities are nice in Miami. I like the coaching staff. I grew up in Chicago watching Coach Wannstedt. I'm just a football fan, period. I just love the game. Anybody gives me an opportunity, I'll give them all I got.

For more information on LB Paris Johnson, click here to go to his bio page from NFLEurope.com.

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