Two weeks ago he was running drills and teaching the children at the Liberty County Recreation Department the fundamentals of football.

On Wednesday, former Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket Michael Johnson finalized a contract and signed to start his rookie season with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Johnson’s passion for kids and football brought him to Liberty County where, for the past four years, he’s assisted his cousin, Cedric Dickerson, a retired pro-football player, in his annual football camp. This year’s camp drew nearly 40 participants.

Johnson’s agent, Richard Kopelman, finalized the four-year deal with the Bengals 24 hours before the squad was set to report to Georgetown College for training. This year’s camp will begin today at 3 p.m.

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Johnson is set to receive $2.6 million, which is the NFL’s minimum salary base. Johnson will also receive an $863,020 signing bonus. Johnson was Cincinnati’s third round pick in the draft.

Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer told reporters he was eager to see what Johnson can do on the line. He is behind Antwan Odom and Frostee Rucker on the depth chart at right end, and is projected to be used in pass rush situations. Johnson might see time at linebacker as well, according to the news report.

Johnson started 15 games during his tenure with the Yellow Jacket. He finished his career with 19 sacks and 30.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage.