Joshua “Josh” Johnson has carved out one of the most extraordinary and resilient careers in NFL history. Known as the ultimate journeyman quarterback, Johnson’s time in the league spans nearly two decades and an unprecedented number of teams, including his current stint with the Washington Commanders.
Who Is Josh Johnson? A Commanders Journeyman QB
Josh Johnson was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2008 NFL Draft. Since then, he has stood out not for Pro Bowl accolades, but for longevity and adaptability—signing contracts with more teams than almost any quarterback in league history. Over his career, he has been part of 14 different franchises, showcasing elite persistence and professionalism both on and off the field.
In 2025, Johnson signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders, adding another chapter to his remarkable story.
NFL Career Earnings
Over nearly 18 seasons in the NFL, Johnson’s ability to stay in the league has translated to solid financial success:
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Career Earnings (NFL): Approximately $12 million+ from salaries, bonuses, and roster incentives across multiple teams.
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2025 Commanders Contract: Johnson’s deal with the Commanders for the 2025 season is worth about $1.42 million, including base salary, signing bonus, and per-game roster bonuses.
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This earning level reflects his role as a veteran backup QB, often stepping in for depth and leadership rather than as a long-term starter.
Despite limited time on the field, Johnson’s career earnings are testament to his value as a reliable NFL professional, averaging significant income even without star status.
Salary Breakdown Highlights
Here’s a snapshot of notable contracts in Johnson’s career:
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Early career base and bonuses in multi-year deal.
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Baltimore Ravens (2024): One-year deal worth approximately $1.38 million.
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Washington Commanders (2025): One-year, ~$1.42M contract—his largest single-season payout.
Across all teams, Johnson’s earnings show the wide variance that journeyman QBs face, from minimum roster salaries to more substantial veteran contracts.
Net Worth: What Has Johnson Built?
Estimating the net worth of NFL players, especially journeymen like Josh Johnson, can be tricky due to varying reports and limited public disclosure of investments or business ventures.
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Estimated Net Worth (2025): Around $13.4 million, based on cumulative career earnings, savings, and contractual income.
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This figure reflects not only his on-field salary but also the intelligent financial pacing that comes with prolonged league tenure.
Unlike superstar quarterbacks with endorsement deals and national media exposure, Johnson’s financial profile is shaped primarily by his NFL income and veteran resilience.
Why Josh Johnson’s Career Is Unique
Johnson’s legacy doesn’t come from Pro Bowls or championships, but from consistency, adaptability, and professional longevity. Things that set him apart:
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Record Number of Team Affiliations: Played or been under contract with more NFL franchises than nearly any other QB.
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Valued Locker Room Presence: Coaches and teammates often praise his leadership and experience despite limited playtime.
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Financial Success Without Stardom: Earning over $12 million as a backup is rare and highlights the business value teams place on seasoned veterans.
Conclusion
Josh Johnson’s journey from a 2008 draft pick to a respected veteran on the Washington Commanders is one of the most compelling stories in modern NFL history. His career earnings reflect not just longevity, but the business savvy required to stay relevant in a competitive league. With a solid net worth and respected reputation, Johnson’s career is a blueprint for how persistence and professionalism can pay off in the NFL—even without superstar status.
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