Billy Johnson was part of a group of high priced import talent that Montreal brought to the CFL in 1981. With the signing of Los Angelas Rams QB Vince Ferragamo, the Als wanted some top notch receivers to catch the ball, so they signed Jake Scott and Johnson. Johnson had been somewhat of a surprise success story in the NFL. He had been a 15th round pick of the Houston Oilers, out of a Division III school. Johnson made his mark in the NFL as a punt returner, and for his touchdown dances. Johnson's kick returning skill got him a shot on offense as well. Montreal's big name experiment, however, was a failure as the Als went 3-13. It was hard to blame Scott who led the East in receiving or Johnson who finished fourth with a very credible 65 catches for 1060 yards. Johnson was also third in the East in punt returns. After 1981, Johnson returned to the NFL, and actually had his best seasons as a receiver after leaving the CFL.
Article on Billy (White Shoes) Johnson
YouTube video of Johnson (1983) Hail Mary Catch
| Year | Team | GP | TC | Yds | Avg | TD | Long | Rec | Yds | Avg | TD | Long |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | MON | 16 | 1 | -9 | -9 | 0 | -9 | 65 | 1060 | 16.3 | 5 | 54 |
| Year | Team | PR | Yds | Avg | TD | Long |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | MON | 59 | 597 | 10.1 | 0 | 92 |
