Shreveport, La. – Parkway High School defensive end Rod Johnson was celebrated this week as the Griffin’s Player of the Week, a distinction that highlights both athletic excellence and academic achievement. Johnson, a senior who maintains a 3.6 GPA, has become a model of the scholar‑athlete ideal, excelling on the football field and in the classroom while also tending to his family’s horse in Shreveport.
On‑field impact
Johnson’s versatility has been a key factor in Parkway’s recent success. He has made game‑winning catches on two‑point conversions and delivered critical stops in the backfield on defense. Coaches praised his ability to perform under pressure, noting that his contributions often swing the momentum in close contests.
Academic dedication
Beyond the gridiron, Johnson is a diligent student. He attributes his strong grades to family support: “My mom works in education and my grandfather always stressed the importance of good grades,” he said. “She just pushed me to make good grades, but it wasn’t a ‘you have to make A’s and B’s’ – after I realized making A’s and B’s isn’t that hard, I just kept doing it.”
Equine passion
When he isn’t studying or practicing football, Johnson spends his free time with his horse, which he has been riding since age three. “My horse is located in Shreveport. I’ve been riding horses since I was like three, so I just stuck with it,” he explained. He envisions a future in the horse industry, dreaming of owning a stable and possibly having others race his horses.
Griffin’s Scholar Athlete Watchlist
The Griffin’s Player of the Week award is part of a broader partnership between KTBS and the McNaughton Chapter of the National Football Foundation. The collaboration honors 14 local student‑athletes with Griffin’s Game Balls and will culminate in the selection of a Griffin’s Player of the Year this spring. The watchlist includes athletes from schools across Caddo Parish, such as Clay Atkinson (Byrd), Ja’Marion Baker‑Shepard (Plain Dealing), and Peyton “Pop” Houston (Evangel), among others.
Community recognition
Johnson’s achievement underscores the importance of supporting young people who strive for excellence in multiple arenas. His story resonates with parents who value both academic rigor and extracurricular dedication, reflecting the community’s commitment to nurturing well‑rounded youth.
Looking ahead
As the football season progresses, Johnson hopes to continue contributing to Parkway’s success while maintaining his academic standing. He also plans to keep developing his equine interests, aiming to balance his athletic ambitions with his long‑term goal of horse ownership.
KTBS and the National Football Foundation will continue to spotlight local talent, reinforcing the message that hard work, faith, and family support can propel students to achieve greatness on and off the field.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
