Dolphins give ex-Viking Johnson a chance

Published Apr. 5, 2012 4:43 p.m. ET

foxsports

In 2008, the Minnesota Vikings traded up in the second round to take Tyrell Johnson. Now, after four lackluster seasons, he is moving on.

The Miami Dolphins announced Thursday that the team has signed the safety and intends to use him as a starter.

The Vikings traded a fourth-round pick to move up and select Johnson with the 43rd choice in 2008.

Johnson started all 15 games he played during his second season but started just five games in his final two years with the Vikings.

Last season, Johnson went on injured reserve in November after having surgery to repair a hamstring injury.

Johnson finished his Vikings’ career with 123 tackles and just two interceptions.