2002 Miami Hurricanes Nearly Match 2001 for 1st Round NFL Draft Picks
Wide Receiver Andre Johnson Third Overall to Houston
After only three receptions for 57 yards as a freshman, Johnson burst out in his Sophomore season in 2001. Johnson had to play behind fellow first round picks Santana Moss and Reggie Wayne in 2000.
He led the Hurricanes in receiving yards and touchdowns as was second in receptions in 2001. He finished the championship season with 37 receptions for 682 yards and ten touchdowns.
Johnson really broke out in the Rose Bowl National Championship
. Johnson burned Nebraska for 199 yards on seven receptions with two touchdowns. He shared the game’s Most Valuable Player Award with Quarterback Ken Dorsey.
Johnson hoped to follow in the footsteps of former Hurricanes who had great rookie seasons. Clinton Portis won the 2002 Rookie of the Year award and Jeremy Shockey finished Runner-Up.
Johnson had an outstanding rookie season. He led the Texans with 66 receptions for 976 yards and four touchdowns. Houston finished the season 5-11. He was named to the NFL’s All-Rookie team following the season.
That was the beginning of a Hall of Fame Career. Johnson led the league twice in receptions, twice in receiving yards and three times in receiving yards per game. In 2008 Johnson led the league in receptions with 115 and receiving yards with 1,575.
His 98.4 receiving yards per game were second to Carolina’s Steve Smith who averaged 101.5. Johnson also added eight touchdowns that season.
Johnson finished his career with 1062 receptions for 14,185 yards and 70 touchdowns. Johnson was selected to seven Pro Bowls and was twice named All-Pro. He ranks 11th all-time in receptions and receiving yards and 15th all-time in receiving yards per game.