Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson reaches for Cleveland Browns running back Isaiah Crowell during an NFL game on Nov. 26, 2017, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati.

Unlike some pro football players who enjoy their bye weeks by having fun in the sun or doing other “pursuits,” Johnson came back home and hosted a luncheon for local fans who hung on every word.

Bishop Dunne head football coach Michael Johnson talks to a player during a scrimmage against Parish Episcopal at Bishop Dunne High School in Dallas on Friday, August 14, 2015.

Michael Johnson, a defensive back and receiver on JT's 1973 state championship football team and current JT receivers coach, died from cancer that progressed quickly to his kidney, lungs and liver.