New England Patriots promote German RB Jakob Johnson to 53 man roster

The New England Patriots announced that they have signed former Stuttgart Scorpion RB/TE Jakob Johnson to the 53-man roster from the practice squad in time for New England’s game against the New York Jets Sunday, September 22.

The 24 year old, 6’3″, 255 lb Johnson, a native of Stuttgart, Germany, was signed by New England as a free agent on April 8, 2019, as part of the NFL’s International Pathway Program. He played at the University of Tennessee first as a linebacker but was moved to tight end as a sophomore appearing in 47 games over four seasons. After graduation, he spent the 2018 season with his home club, the Stuttgart Scorpions in the German Football League, as a tight end.  Johnson played in 12 games for the Scorpions and totaled 43 receptions for 474 yards and four touchdowns.

Johnson was released from the Patriots on the final cut-down on August 31 but moved to the regular 10 man practice roster.  Now, with Antonio Brown released and regular fullback James Develin out with a neck injury, the Patriots used the open roster spot to promote Johnson on Saturday.