UMD Athletics

Tyler Johnson, a mainstay on the UMD defensive line from 2006-09, made his way back to his alma mater last fall to assume a graduate assistant coaching role (outside linebackers).

Following his graduation from UMD in the spring of 2010 with a B.A.S. degree in elementary education, Johnson had taught third grade in the city he was born and raised – Rhinelander, Wis. – while also serving on the football coaching staff at Rhinelander High School. In 2012, he took over as the team's defensive coordinator and helped shepherd the Hodags to their first WIAA playoff appearance in 23 years.

Johnson, who is now pursuing a Master’s of Education degree at UMD, received All-Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference second team recognition as a senior in 2009 after being credited with a personal-best 19 total tackles and two pass breakups from the nose tackle position.   A two-time NSIC All-Academic Team honoree and 2007 North Central Conference Commissioners honor roll recipient, he started the final 20 games of his collegiate career.