Bengals legend Chad 'Ochocinco' Johnson discusses long-time passion for soccer, MLS

USA Today

19-03-2025

Bengals legend Chad 'Ochocinco' Johnson discusses long-time passion for soccer, MLS
This week, Touchdown Wire's Ed Easton Jr. spoke to Cincinnati Bengals legend and retired NFL wide receiver Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson at the Whitney Museum in New York City during his panel appearance for eMLS CUP 2025.
In his interview with Easton Jr., Johnson opened up about his love for soccer and continue partnership with MLS.
"My passion for soccer started as a kid," Johnson began. "I'm from Liberty City in Miami. You know how that was in the 80s, nothing. I come from nothing. My grandfather, who was Bahamian, always used to watch soccer at the time. (Diego) Maradona was playing at that time. Pele was playing at the time. Most of the time, as an adult, what you gravitate to younger, what you see first as a youngin, is directly related to what you want to do and want to play. Soccer was something that I fell in love with, but I had no resources to play, especially where I come from. So it's always been a love of mine. I have always been enthusiastic and passionate about the game, the beautiful game, but I never had the opportunity to play. "
Johnson played eleven seasons in the NFL, earning many honors, notably with the Bengals for ten seasons and a Super Bowl appearance in his lone season with the New England Patriots. He explained the decision to pursue a career in the NFL instead of his first love, soccer.
"No other route to go. My route to get out of my circumstances at that time was football. It definitely wasn't going to be any damn academic scholarship. I mean, I'm just gonna be honest. So that was my ticket out," Johnson explained. "Everyone has those same circumstances. You know, Grandma to take care of family, kids at the time, So my ticket out was American football, but soccer was always my love, and always will be, still to this day."
The two-time first-team All-Pro wide receiver spoke on Major League Soccer's GAME ON: Next-Gen Fandom panel, which featured thought leaders, industry disruptors, and Gen Z voices. The panel explored the evolution of sports consumption, the influences of gaming, hip-hop, digital art, and sneaker culture, and how authenticity in the digital age is essential for audience engagement.
Major League Soccer unveiled the new "Game On" brand campaign for its 30th season celebration. The spot features Grammy Award-winning rap artist and avid soccer fan Doechii.
"Well, the beauty about Doechii being a partner is, first and foremost, she played soccer growing up, and she's entering into what's going to be a very impactful part of her life," said MLS Executive Vice President and Chief Engagement Officer Sola Winley. "She has a global following; she's got an audience that adores her. Her message resonates. She's only one of three women who have won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, and for her to make a decision to partner with Major League Soccer, a brand that is trying to continue to deepen its roots in culture, really is a significant statement, and so I expect big things to continue to happen. I hope that she feels that it's a partnership that's valuable for her. It's certainly valuable for us, and we're working on some potential big things with Doechii. So stay tuned."