NASHVILLE, TN – March 21, 2024 – Former Tennessee Titan and NFL All-Pro Running Back Chris Johnson has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Johnson was told of the news on Thursday as part of the Official Titans Podcast by Tennessee Sports Hall of Famers Mike Keith and Keith Bulluck. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame pays homage to the state’s rich sports history and their impact within the community. On behalf of sponsor Tennessee Lottery, the Hall offers free admission at their downtown Nashville location Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Chris Johnson took the sports world by storm with his explosive plays and blinding speed. His 2009 record-setting season will be long remembered by sports fans across the state of Tennessee,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “Chris carries a lot of titles. Explosive, dynamic, All-Pro, Pro-Bowler, CJ2K, and now Tennessee Sports Hall of Famer.”
The Tennessee Titans drafted Johnson with the 24th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. The East Carolina University product made an immediate impact, as he rushed for over 1,200 yards and helped lead the team to a 13-3 regular season record. Johnson’s 2009 season was arguably the greatest season for any running back in NFL history. Johnson rushed for 2,006 yards and set a single season NFL record with 2,509 yards from scrimmage. Johnson was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year and a First-Team All-Pro. Johnson earned the nickname CJ2K for his 2009 season accomplishments. Over his ten-year career, Johnson rushed for 9,651 yards and 55 touchdowns, while adding another 2,255 yards and 9 touchdowns receiving. Johnson played with the Titans from 2008-2013, finishing his career with stops with the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals. Johnson signed a one-day contract with the Titans when he officially retired on April 24, 2019
Johnson joins Olympic Gold Medal figure skater Scott Hamilton, Millington business owner and philanthropist, the late W.S. “Babe” Howard, ETSU Golf Coaching legend Fred Warren, Nashville-area tennis pro Thay Butchee, the late Charlie Bayless, longtime basketball coach at Happy Valley High School, Tennessee tennis star Paul Annacone, TSU Track legend Jean Patton Latimer, Memphis champion racquetball player and coach Larry Liles, and Austin Peay basketball coaching legend Dave Loos as the only announced members of the 2024 Class. The full 2024 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released over the coming weeks.
The 2024 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will be held Saturday, July 20nd at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Tickets are available now at http://TSHF2024.givesmart.com
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is located at 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $6 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives and after-school programs. In addition to the educational beneficiaries, players have won more than $16.5 billion in prizes and Lottery retailers have earned more than $1.5 billion in commissions. For additional information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the TEL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
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