Former Denver Broncos receiver Vance Johnson recently joined the 12th Men’s Rally event in the Valley. The former athlete shared his addiction recovery and spiritual journey.
On Sunday, Oct. 9, the men’s faith rally was held at the Covelli Centre in downtown Youngstown, as The Vindicator reported.
This year, the event’s theme was “Be United in Christ.” The free-pass event featured musical performances by the Sidewalk Prophets.
Meanwhile, guest speakers include Bob Pavlich, Joel Penton, State Rep. Tim Ginter, and more. Ex-Denver Broncos player Vance Johnson was also invited to share his faith testimony.
Men’s Rally President Bing Newton said that the event day was filled with praise, worship, and testimony.
“God has been good to the Men’s Rally in the Valley. We believe only with unity in Christ can the enemy be defeated,” Newton said.
He added that even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, men’s faith prevailed.
Vance Johnson Testimony
During the faith rally, the 1980s football star talked about his life journey. But Johnson did not share stories about his professional football career nor the highlights of his three Super Bowl stints.
Instead, The Vindicator reported that the former athlete shared his experience of growing up with an abusive father.
Johnson revealed that his father would often cheat on his mother and beat him as a child.
He said that his dad was also the type who would gamble a lot. He also allowed his young son to view his collection of pornographic magazines.
Because of his father’s un-Christian ways, Johnson promised himself that he would never be like his father. He vowed to be the total opposite and become rich and famous.
As a young man, Johnson said he stayed away from liquor and drugs. Instead, he dedicated his time to sports, particularly in football and track.
He fulfilled his dream of becoming a student-athlete. However, he broke his promise and started to use alcohol and drugs. He also began to gamble and chase women.
Even after getting drafted by the Denver Broncos, Johnson said that he lost a lot of money on his vices. He also had eight children with different women.
During his testimony, Johnson warned his brothers in faith that while he achieved all the physical goals in life, he lost his spiritual life in the process.
Addiction Recovery
Earlier this month, Johnson also shared his life testimony at Harvest Church in Billings, as KTVQ reported.
Before and after his NFL career, Johnson reportedly suffered from addiction, suicidal thoughts, and personal family struggles.
He told ESPN that during his downfall, he would take 60 painkillers during the day.
In the fall of 2013, Johnson was reportedly overdosed and unconscious for 28 days. Later that year, former Bucs player Randy Grimes called him again.
Despite being in recovery at that time, Grimes still urged him on his status. He advised Johnson to go into rehab.
After some time, he finally agreed to do rehab, which for him, forever changed his life.
KTVQ noted that Johnson has been sober since 2013. For seven years, the player shared his recovery story with church groups.
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