Defensive Line

In his 13th season on the staff, Larry Johnson is in his eighth year coaching the defensive line. He has been instrumental in the development of four first team All-Americans in the past eight years, including defensive end Tamba Hali, a 2006 NFL first round draft choice. End Maurice Evans was first team All-Big Ten and a finalist for the Ted Hendricks Award in 2007. Michael Haynes and Jimmy Kennedy were 2002 All-Americans and first round NFL draft choices. Johnson worked solely with the defensive ends and oversaw many of the special teams from 1996-99. His efforts with Courtney Brown helped him earn All-America honors in 1999, setting three school sack and tackle for loss records. Brown was the No. 1 selection in the 2000 NFL Draft. Johnson also has coached nine first team All-Big Ten performers and has had a big role in the success of the defense, punting and recruiting efforts during his tenure. Head coach at McDonough High School in Pomfret, Md., for 19 years, Johnson's teams posted a 139-36 ledger, capturing state championships in 1983, `85 and `90. In 1992-93, he was head coach at T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Va. Johnson was a standout linebacker at Elizabeth City (N.C.) State University, earning NAIA All-America honors. After graduation, he played one season with the NFL's Washington Redskins. One son, Larry, became just the ninth player in NCAA history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season in 2002 and is a two-time All-Pro pick with the Kansas City Chiefs. Another son, Tony, was a Penn State wide receiver.