Cal Football DL Brett Johnson Announces Retirement from Football
The former defensive linemen hangs it up
This morning, Cal defensive lineman Brett Johnson announced his medical retirement from football. After suffering back to back season ending injuries before the season started in 2021 and 2022, Brett came back for his swansong this past year with the Bears, where he played in all 12 regular season games before suffering an injury against UCLA.
Johnson noted that “I am unable to play football at the highest level without seriously sacrificing my short and long-term health”. Regardless of that, it was a success story for Brett Johnson to come back this season, when he could have stepped away after a series of unfortunate events. Brett was able to go out on his terms, with his people by his side, and come out the other end ready to attack his future.
“He’s a really well-respected guy on the team and forever will be a Cal Bear”, said Cal HC Justin Wilcox during his media availability today. “He is one of those guys who’s going to be able to handle whatever adversity comes at him because of some of the things he went through here”.
We thank Brett for his contributions at Cal, and wish him the best in the future. Forever BRETT JOHNSON.
It has to be so frustrating to have more talent than one's body can handle. Appreciate all the effort he gave constantly trying to compete. Hope that determination brings him great success.
Wow.....I feel so bad for his injuries, but he'll overcome all that with the quality of his character. A really impressive person. Best of luck, Brett; we're all proud to have you represent Cal now and into the future.