The story of Inky Johnson tells the story of a tragic end to the career of a talented footballer. Johnson was born on February 12, 1986, and raised east of Atlanta in a town called Kirkwood; He was born into a very rough neighborhood, which was a hub of constant crime, drugs, and perpetual gang violence.
He was not raised by his biological parents but by his grandmother who raised him in abject poverty; Her grandmother’s house was a two-bedroom apartment with 14 occupants who had no choice but to sleep on the floor on mats with rats and cockroaches.
Johnson grew up with his only role models being his uncles who dealt drugs and were active in local gangs, he decided early on not to deal drugs like his uncles. He decided to join the NFL in order to lift his family out of the extreme poverty of the ghetto.
He shared his vision of football with his cousin who had the same passion for the game and they trained every night running in the streets to build their stamina and stay fit. They were soon spotted by a football coach who offered them free training while being impressed with their late night street workout.
A contributing factor to Inky Johnson’s rise was his discipline, dedication and hard work, which was evident in his staying at the end of his training after practicing extra football drills. During his studies, he was often teased and mocked because of his height. He was explicitly told that he would not make it to the NFL due to his short stature, but that he would end up like the rest of his family in prison.
Inky Johnson never had anyone to train him through college, but through struggle and adversity, he managed to work through college part-time and play the game he loved.
After graduating from college, he received a life-changing phone call – a call from his coach who called to inform him that he had been selected as a top-30 pick. Within a season, Johnson became a multi-millionaire and had enough money to lift his family out of poverty.
What happened to him?
In tragic circumstances, his football career ended in 2006 when he was still playing at the University of Tennessee. During that game against the Airforce Falcons, a routine tackle from an opponent turned into a career-ending and life-threatening disaster. Within seconds, his NFL dream was over, with the injury permanently crippling his right arm.
Johnson to his credit showed great character and didn’t let his injury hold him back for too long, as he studied psychology and is now a professional speaker who inspires millions around the world. As a motivational speaker, he speaks in schools, community centers and various ceremonies in the United States. Johnson has been the keynote speaker at many occasions and events, but most notably at the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Inky Johnson’s net worth
It’s a bit difficult to pinpoint the netA man like Inky Johnson, who makes a living traveling from state to state, speaking at numerous events. According to Big Speak of the United States, a basic motivational speaker charges between $10,000 and $20,000, which should bring his net worth to around $1 million.
Family – father, wife
Inky Johnson was raised by his mother and grandmother, however, he is referring to meeting his biological father as he was about to enter the NFL. His father, whose name is not known, was also a sportsman. He tells how he taught her essential life lessons to tap into her inner reserves and surpass herself.
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Inky Johnson met and fell in love with his wife, Allison, while she was still in school and the couple decided to take the next step and get married. They got married on April 9, 2011 and were blessed with two beautiful children. a daughter named Jada and a son who has the same first name – Inky Jr. They live in Atlanta, Georgia.