Bill Johnson hails from Lethbridge, AB and he went on to play four years of college ball in the States at Colingo Jr. College (California), Arizona State and Northeastern Oklahoma State. Johnson was a regular at tackle for Northeastern Oklahoma in 1959 an 1960, before coming back home to try out with the Stampeders in 1961. Johnson was released by the Stampeders early in 1961 and then he tried out with Montreal in 1962, but was a late cut. Johnson finally snagfged a job in the CFL with Ottawa in 1963 and played with them again in 1964, appearing in all 14 games in both seasons. In 1965, Johnson played one game with the Toronto Argos. In 1966, Johnson was in camp with the Alouettes, but left early for personal reasons.
Johnson relesed by Stampeders - September 8, 1961 (Bombers Cut Shannon...)
Johnson released by Alouettes - August 2, 1962 (Five Players on Injury Reserver List)
Johnson Leaves Als Camp - June 27, 1966 (Alouettes Unvweil New Emblem...)
| Year | Team | GP |
|---|---|---|
| 1961 | CAL | |
| 1963 | OTT | 14 |
| 1964 | OTT | 14 |
| 1965 | TOR | 1 |
Johnson is not listed on the All-Time Calgary roster. There are no game participation stats in the West for 1961, but he was released about a month into the regular season.