FRESNO – NFL star Jaylon Johnson grew up in Fresno and is coming back to his roots to donate supplies to elementary school children for their upcoming camping trip.
Johnson will be appearing at a school assembly today (Feb. 21) at 1 p.m. to donate 75 sleeping bags and hoodies to help equip the sixth-graders for the outdoor experience. The supplies are being donated through his non-profit, Rare Breed Sports.
“I think an opportunity like this for Jaylon to come to an elementary school, it gives encouragement for students and the community to see someone who is from Fresno to become successful,” Javier Garza, community schools coordinator for Fresno Unified School District said. “It is also a great way for him to give back and for the community to receive.”
Lincoln Elementary School is part of the Fresno Unified School District. It is located in the southwest part of Fresno in an area that tends to have lower incomes. Garza said Johnson’s continued participation in the community is inspiring.
“He did a football camp in this region this past summer and he wants to give back because it is a higher-need neighborhood,” Garza said.
Johnson is a cornerback for the Chicago Bears. PFF graded him as the 18th-best overall corner in the league of 233 players that were graded. He was a second-team All-Pro in 2023 and a Pro Bowler that same year and again in 2024. Johnson was born in Fresno and attended Central High School. He was a second-round draft pick by the Bears in 2020 and recently signed a four-year deal that will keep him in Chicago.
“This event is part of Lincoln Elementary’s ongoing efforts to provide students with role models who exemplify excellence and inspire them to pursue their dreams with determination and integrity,” a press release reads. “As part of Black History Month, Johnson’s visit presents a unique opportunity for students to hear from a successful African American athlete who has demonstrated perseverance, hard work, and dedication both on and off the field.”
