Derrick Johnson returns to Austin to talk Longhorns, Colin Simmons - and to read to kids

Former Texas football star and Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Derrick Johnson visited Blazier Elementary School in southeast Austin on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026. Johnson's Defend the Dream Foundation transformed the school's library into a welcoming learning space with new furniture, colorful graphics and over 1,000 new books. Johnson, who was a three-time All-American and Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner, encouraged students to be their best selves, echoing the advice he gave to himself during his own college career.

Johnson, who was recently selected by the Chiefs as the No. 15 overall draft pick, suggested that current Texas star Colin Simmons consider staying in school and not declaring for the 2027 NFL Draft, as he did himself in 2005. Johnson also praised current Texas quarterback Arch Manning, comparing him to legendary Longhorns quarterback Vince Young, and urged Manning to embrace his full personality both on and off the field.