Interview: Fred Johnson loves the culture being established in Cincinnati

Offensive line coach Jim Turner has praised Fred Johnson’s intelligence and ability to absorb information. Matt Minich demonstrated how quickly the tackle made an adjustment against a stunt late in last year’s barnburner against the Miami Dolphins. There’s even an argument to be made about keeping Johnson at left tackle.

There is much to love about Johnson, including his bubbly personality, which was entirely on display in our interview.

Johnson talked about the culture of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the traits of their offensive line. He learned grit and determination from guys like Maurkice Pouncey, David DeCastro, and the retired Ramon Foster. He was grateful for the opportunity the Steelers gave him but is very much looking forward to facing them after they released him.

Just because he appreciates Pittsburgh’s culture doesn’t mean he isn’t ecstatic about the current culture in Cincinnati. Johnson praised the big offseason moves and said Zac Taylor is a very determined coach.

Johnson talked about Turner’s personality, calling him “detail-oriented.” At the same time, Johnson said, Turner is open-minded and willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. That included moving Johnson to tackle simply because, well, “the team needed a tackle,” he said.

The current pandemic has made it tough for players to train as they normally would, but that hasn’t stopped Johnson from training with teammate Michael Jordan and getting himself mentally prepared.

“You want to peak at the right time,” he said. “We’re trying to stay focused and do what we gotta do so we’re ready when training camp comes around.”

You can watch the entire interview below: