Pro Football Hall of Fame Selection Means 'Everything' to Texans Legend Andre Johnson
Houston Texans legend Andre Johnson did not take a snap during the 2023 season. But during Thursday's NFL Honors, Johnson had the best moment of the night for the franchise as the Texans’ first Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.
Johnson will receive the prestigious gold jacket in Canton as part of the 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. He was a finalist for the Hall of Fame in 2022 and 2023 but fell short during the previous years.
"Being selected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame means everything to me,” Johnson said. "I couldn’t have made it here without the support from my teammates, coaches, family and friends."
Andre Johnson during the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2024 press conference at Resorts World Theatre.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Johnson began his career with the Texans as the No. 3 pick of the 2003 NFL Draft from the University of Miami. In 12 seasons, Johnson became the franchise’s all-time leader in career receiving yards (13,597), receptions (1,012), and receiving touchdowns (64). He also ranks 11th in league history for most receiving yards.
He played a significant role in the Texans establishing themselves as a respectable franchise. Johnson led the Texans to their first non-losing season in franchise history four years after his arrival with an 8-8 record in 2007.
Johnson helped the franchise achieve the feat alongside coach DeMeco Ryans, who received his lone Pro Bowl nod during the 2007 campaign.
As a seven-time Pro Bowler, Johnson was the inaugural member of the Texans’ Ring of Honor in 2017. Johnson's former teammate J.J. Watt became the second inductee on Oct. 1.
"When I first entered the NFL, I never thought about the idea of becoming a Pro Football Hall of Famer one day," Johnson said. "I just wanted to be known as one of the best players to ever play the game, but now I get to go to football heaven, where I can enjoy the ultimate closure to my career."
After his legendary career in Houston, Johnson had quick stints with the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans, respectively. However, the Texans signed Johnson to a one-day contract in 2016, which allowed him to retire with the franchise.
After an illustrious career, Johnson has engraved himself in Houston's Sports history as one of the city's moments iconic figures.
"To the city of Houston, the Houston Texans organization and the fan base, thank you for embracing me and always showing me and my family love and support," Johnson said. "I am so honored to be the first Texan to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and can’t wait to continue to represent this organization as they continue their success."
