Chad Ochocinco Johnson, formerly known as Chad Ochocinco, is a retired American football player known for his time as a wide receiver in the NFL. He played college football at Santa Monica College and Oregon State University before being drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2001. He spent a decade with the Bengals, where he became known for his on-field talent and his eccentric personality, famously changing his last name to Ochocinco (Spanish for "eight five") to reflect his jersey number. In 2011, he was traded to the New England Patriots and played in Super Bowl XLVI.
1970: NFL-AFL Merger
The NFL and AFL merged in 1970, which is relevant to Chad Johnson breaking the three-game receiving record since the merger in 2006.
January 9, 1978: Birth of Chad Johnson
Chad Javon Johnson was born on January 9, 1978.
1989: John Taylor Sets Receiving Record
San Fransisco 49ers receiver John Taylor set a record for receiving yards in consecutive games, which Chad Johnson would later surpass in 2006.
1997: Transfers to Santa Monica College
Chad Johnson transferred to Santa Monica College in 1997, where he played alongside future NFL wide receiver Steve Smith.
2000: Transfers to Oregon State University and Fiesta Bowl Victory
Chad Johnson transferred to Oregon State University in 2000. He played a key role in the team's 11-1 season, which culminated in a Fiesta Bowl victory against Notre Dame.
2001: Rookie Season with Bengals
Chad Johnson had a moderate rookie season with the Bengals in 2001, catching 28 passes for 329 yards and one touchdown.
2001: Drafted by Cincinnati Bengals
Chad Johnson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft.
2001: Drafted by Cincinnati Bengals
Chad Johnson was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the second round of the 2001 NFL draft.
2002: Another 1,000-Yard Season and Bengals' Losing Streak
Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh both surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the second consecutive year in 2006. However, the Bengals finished with a losing record for the first time since 2002.
2002: Breakout Performance
Chad Johnson had a breakout season in 2002, recording 69 receptions for 1,166 receiving yards and five touchdowns.
2003: Sets Bengals Franchise Record
Chad Johnson set a Bengals franchise record with 1,355 receiving yards in the 2003 season.
2003: Pro Bowl Selection Streak Begins
This year marked the beginning of Chad Johnson's five consecutive Pro Bowl selections, continuing until 2007.
2004: Continued Success with Bengals
Chad Johnson continued his success with the Bengals in 2004, catching 95 passes for 1,274 yards and nine touchdowns. This included a standout performance against the Cleveland Browns, where he had 117 receiving yards in a 58-48 victory.
November 2, 2005: The "Who Covered 85" Checklist
During the 2005 season, Chad Johnson introduced his "who Covered 85 in '05" checklist, evaluating the defensive backs who successfully covered him. Bengals coach Marvin Lewis temporarily replaced it with a parody list focused on Johnson's performance, but the original returned after Johnson's stellar performance against the Baltimore Ravens on November 2, 2005.
2005: Breaks Own Franchise Record
Chad Johnson set a new Bengals franchise record for receiving yards in 2005 with 1,440, surpassing his own previous record.
2005: Breaks Franchise Record and Achieves AFC Receiving Title
Chad Johnson surpassed his own Bengals franchise record in 2005, recording 1,432 receiving yards. This marked his fourth consecutive season leading the AFC in receiving yards. He also earned Pro Bowl selections from 2003 to 2007.
April 20, 2006: Contract Extension with Bengals
Chad Johnson signed a contract extension with the Cincinnati Bengals on April 20, 2006, securing his place on the team through 2011.
August 2006: Tops List of Showboats in Professional Sports
In August 2006, Fox Sports named Chad Johnson the top showboat in professional sports, recognizing his flamboyant on-field celebrations.
October 25, 2006: Ocho Cinco Name Announcement
On October 25, 2006, Chad Johnson announced that he would prefer to be called "Ocho Cinco", which translates to "eight five" in Spanish, a reference to his jersey number.
October 29, 2006: Ocho Cinco Jersey Stunt
During warm-ups for a game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 29, 2006, Chad Johnson wore a jersey with "Ocho Cinco" on the back instead of his last name. The NFL fined him $5,000 for the stunt.
2006: Leads NFL in Receiving Yards and Bengals Team Achievement
Chad Johnson led the NFL in receiving yards in 2006, a first for a Bengals player. He and teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh also became the first Bengals duo to each surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a single season.
2006: NFL Street 3 Cover Athlete
Chad Ochocinco was featured on the cover of EA's video game "NFL Street 3", released in 2006.
2006: Record-Breaking Performances and Mid-Season Resurgence
Despite a slow start in 2006, Chad Johnson had a resurgence in the latter half of the season. He achieved a then-record 450 receiving yards in back-to-back games, surpassing a record set by John Taylor in 1989, and broke the three-game receiving record since the 1970 NFL-AFL merger. Josh Gordon would later surpass Johnson's two-game record in 2013.
May 2007: Lawsuit Filed
Chad Johnson was sued in May 2007 for allegedly not providing a Lexus that was supposed to be raffled off.
June 2007: Horse Racing for Charity
Chad Johnson raced a Thoroughbred racehorse for charity in June 2007. Johnson received a 110-yard head start and won the race by twelve lengths.
2007: Online Checklist and Charity Initiative
Degree and Yahoo! partnered with Chad Johnson to create an online version of his checklist in 2007. Fans voted for the NFL quarterback Johnson should play with, raising funds for his charity, "Feed the Children."
2007: Controversial Season and Criticism
In 2007, Chad Johnson faced criticism and controversy, being labeled as "selfish" and a "cancer" by some. This negative perception significantly impacted his relationship with the team and the media.
2007: Pro Bowl Selection Streak Ends
This year marked the end of Chad Johnson's streak of five consecutive Pro Bowl selections, which began in 2003.
January 13, 2008: Public Criticism of the Bengals
On January 13, 2008, Chad Johnson publicly criticized the media and the Cincinnati Bengals organization for their treatment of him during the 2007 season. He expressed feeling hurt by being labeled "selfish" and a "cancer," and suggested that the team should "get rid of the problem" if they wanted to succeed.
August 29, 2008: Legal Name Change
Chad Johnson legally changed his name to Chad Javon Ochocinco on August 29, 2008.
2008: Name Change to Chad Ochocinco
Chad Johnson officially changed his last name to Ochocinco, meaning "eight five" in Spanish, reflecting his jersey number.
2008: Trade Demands and Conflicts
Throughout 2008, Chad Johnson expressed his desire to be traded from the Cincinnati Bengals, even publicly calling on Washington Redskins' owner Daniel Snyder to make a deal. His demands and refusal to attend offseason workouts caused friction with the team and his teammates. Despite a potential trade with the Redskins falling through and undergoing ankle surgery, Johnson played the entire season with a partially torn labrum.
2008: Making Amends with Fans
Following a tumultuous 2008 season marked by trade demands and conflicts, Chad Johnson made efforts to repair his relationship with Cincinnati fans. He engaged in public appearances, invited fans to dinners and movie screenings, and used his Twitter account to connect with them directly.
2008: Pro Bowl Selection and Controversy
In 2008, Chad Johnson was initially not selected for the Pro Bowl, but was later chosen as a replacement for Randy Moss. This marked his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl selection, and he made history alongside teammate T. J. Houshmandzadeh as the first Bengals receiver duo to achieve this.
July 2009: Twitter Ban and Placekicking Debut
In July 2009, Chad Johnson's plan to use Twitter during games was thwarted by an NFL ban. However, he made headlines in August by taking over placekicking duties during a preseason game against the New England Patriots, successfully kicking off and making an extra point.
2009: "Hachi Go" Name Change Announcement
Chad Ochocinco announced in 2009 that he would legally change his name to "Hachi Go", which translates to "eight five" in Japanese, but the change never happened.
2009: Wears "Ochocinco" on Jersey
Chad Ochocinco began wearing "OCHOCINCO" on the back of his jersey in 2009.
2009: Trade Rumors and Offseason Developments
In the lead-up to the 2009 season, rumors circulated about potential trades involving Chad Johnson. However, no concrete deals materialized, and Johnson remained with the Bengals.
March 1, 2010: "Dancing with the Stars" Announcement
Chad Johnson's foray into the entertainment world was announced on March 1, 2010, when he was confirmed as a contestant for the tenth season of the popular dance competition show, "Dancing with the Stars."
March 22, 2010: "Dancing with the Stars" Premiere
On March 22, 2010, Chad Johnson made his dancing debut on the season premiere of "Dancing with the Stars," partnering with two-time champion Cheryl Burke.
May 18, 2010: Elimination from "Dancing with the Stars"
Chad Johnson's journey on "Dancing with the Stars" came to an end on May 18, 2010, when he was eliminated from the competition after receiving the lowest combined score from the judges and viewer votes.
September 13, 2010: Guest Host on WWE Raw
On September 13, 2010, Chad Ochocinco appeared as the guest host of the WWE Raw show.
November 16, 2010: Proposal to Evelyn Lozada
Chad Ochocinco proposed to Evelyn Lozada on November 16, 2010.
November 18, 2010: "Mad Chad" iPhone Game Release
On November 18, 2010, Chad Johnson ventured into the world of mobile gaming with the release of "Mad Chad," an iPhone game he co-designed with RockLive. The game became a popular download on iTunes, showcasing Johnson's entrepreneurial side and his ability to connect with fans in new ways.
2010: "Ochocinco: The Ultimate Catch" Premiere
In 2010, Chad Johnson starred in his own reality television dating show, "Ochocinco: The Ultimate Catch," which aired on VH1. The show featured aspiring singer-songwriter Rubi Pazmino, who ultimately won Johnson's heart, and also made appearances by fellow NFL wide receivers Terrell Owens and Bernard Berrian, who offered Johnson advice throughout the process.
2010: Pistachio Commercial
Chad Ochocinco was featured in a pistachio commercial in 2010.
2010: Franchise Records and Milestones
Chad Johnson started the 2010 season strong, tying the Bengals' franchise record for touchdown catches in the opening game and becoming the sixth player in NFL history to reach 10,000 receiving yards with a single team. He also surpassed 700 career receptions that season, solidifying his place as a Bengals legend.
2010: "Hachi Go" Name Change Does Not Occur
Chad Ochocinco did not end up changing his name to "Hachi Go" in 2010 as he had previously stated.
2010: "The T. Ocho Show" Premiere
In 2010, Chad Johnson, also known as Chad Ochocinco, teamed up with fellow NFL wide receiver Terrell Owens to launch "The T. Ocho Show" on Versus. This talk show allowed them to share their perspectives on football, basketball, and pop culture.
January 25, 2011: Name Change Back to Johnson Announcement
Chad Ochocinco stated on January 25, 2011 that he planned on changing his name back to Chad Johnson.
March 16, 2011: Soccer Trial Announcement
On March 16, 2011, amidst the 2011 NFL Lockout, Chad Ochocinco announced he would be participating in a four-day trial with Sporting Kansas City of Major League Soccer.
March 23, 2011: Start of Soccer Trial
Chad Ochocinco's trial with Sporting Kansas City began on March 23, 2011.
April 2011: Ranked #1 Most Influential Athlete on Social Media
In April 2011, CNBC named Chad Johnson the most influential athlete on social media.
May 14, 2011: Bull Riding Attempt
Chad Ochocinco attempted to ride a bull named Deja Blue at a Professional Bull Riders event in Duluth, Georgia on May 14, 2011, but only lasted 1.5 seconds.
June 2011: Cameo Appearance in "American Reunion"
Chad Ochocinow filmed a cameo appearance as himself for the movie "American Reunion" in June 2011.
June 30, 2011: Name Change Reversal
On June 30, 2011, Chad Ochocinco announced that, due to financial issues, he would not be changing his name back to Chad Johnson.
July 28, 2011: Trade to the New England Patriots
On July 28, 2011, Chad Johnson was traded to the New England Patriots after restructuring his contract for a three-year, $6.35 million deal. The Bengals received a fifth-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and a sixth-round pick in 2013 as part of the trade.
2011: "The T. Ocho Show" Cancellation
"The T. Ocho Show," Chad Johnson and Terrell Owens's talk show, was canceled in 2011 due to a change in programming direction at Versus, which was being rebranded as an NBC Sports-focused channel. The new management felt the show didn't align with their vision for the network.
2011: Pistachio Commercial
Chad Ochocinco was featured in a pistachio commercial in 2011.
2011: End of Contract Extension
Chad Johnson's contract extension with the Cincinnati Bengals, signed in 2006, came to an end.
2011: Traded to New England Patriots and Super Bowl XLVI Appearance
Chad Johnson was traded to the New England Patriots and played in Super Bowl XLVI in 2011.
2011: Last Season with "Ochocinco" on Jersey
Chad Ochocinco stopped wearing "OCHOCINCO" on the back of his jersey after the 2011 NFL season.
June 7, 2012: Release from the Patriots
Chad Johnson's time with the New England Patriots was short-lived. He was released by the team on June 7, 2012.
June 11, 2012: Signing with the Miami Dolphins
Shortly after his release from the New England Patriots, Chad Johnson signed with the Miami Dolphins on June 11, 2012.
July 4, 2012: Marriage to Evelyn Lozada
Chad Johnson and Evelyn Lozada got married on July 4, 2012.
July 23, 2012: Legal Name Change Back to Chad Johnson
Chad Ochocinco legally changed his name back to Chad Johnson on July 23, 2012, after signing with the Miami Dolphins.
August 11, 2012: Arrest and Release of Chad Johnson
On August 11, 2012, Chad Johnson was arrested for domestic battery after an altercation with his then-wife, Evelyn Lozada, in Davie, Florida, where he allegedly headbutted her. He was released on bond the following day.
September 19, 2012: Divorce of Chad Johnson and Evelyn Lozada
Evelyn Lozada filed for divorce from Chad Johnson shortly after the domestic battery incident, and their divorce was finalized on September 19, 2012.
September 21, 2012: Chad Johnson's Plea Deal
Chad Johnson entered a plea of no contest to misdemeanor domestic battery charges on September 21, 2012, avoiding jail time in an agreement with prosecutors and Evelyn Lozada. He received a year of probation.
2012: Reverts to Birth Name
Chad Ochocinco reverted to his birth name, Chad Johnson.
2012: Future Draft Pick Trade
In 2011, a trade involving Chad Johnson resulted in a fifth-round pick being exchanged in the 2012 NFL Draft.
2012: Television Appearances
Chad Ochocinco appeared on the television shows "Blue Mountain State" and "The League" in 2012.
2012: Signs with Miami Dolphins and Subsequent Release
Chad Johnson signed with the Miami Dolphins during the preseason but was released following an arrest for domestic violence in 2012.
May 7, 2013: Arrest Warrant Issued for Chad Johnson
A warrant for Chad Johnson's arrest was issued on May 7, 2013, for allegedly violating the terms of his probation related to his 2012 domestic battery case. The alleged violations included failing to meet with probation officers and provide proof of enrollment in a batterers intervention program.
June 10, 2013: Chad Johnson Sentenced to Jail
Despite reaching a plea deal that would have avoided jail time, Chad Johnson was sentenced to 30 days in jail on June 10, 2013, by Judge Kathleen McHugh for violating his probation. The judge rescinded the plea deal because Johnson playfully slapped his attorney in court, deeming it disrespectful and demonstrating a lack of seriousness. In addition to the jail sentence, the judge extended his probation, mandated community service, and ordered counseling.
2013: Future Draft Pick Trade
In 2011, a trade involving Chad Johnson led to a sixth-round pick being exchanged in the 2013 NFL Draft.
2013: Josh Gordon Surpasses Receiving Record
Josh Gordon of the Cleveland Browns surpassed Chad Johnson's record for receiving yards in consecutive games, which Johnson set in 2006.
April 17, 2014: Joining the CFL
Chad Johnson's football career took him to the Canadian Football League (CFL) when he signed with the Montreal Alouettes on April 17, 2014.
2014: Joins Montreal Alouettes
Chad Johnson began playing for the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 2014.
March 2015: Twitter Exchange with Buffalo Sabres
Chad Johnson was part of a humorous Twitter exchange with the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL in March 2015 regarding their acquisition of a goalie who shared the same name.
2015: Suspension and Contract Expiration
Chad Johnson's time with the Montreal Alouettes was marred by a suspension in 2015 due to his absence from mandatory training camp. He remained suspended throughout the entire season, and his contract was not renewed, making him a free agent after the 2015 CFL season.
2015: Departs Montreal Alouettes
Chad Johnson concluded his time with the Montreal Alouettes in 2015.
February 9, 2016: Free Agency in the CFL
On February 9, 2016, Chad Johnson became a free agent in the Canadian Football League (CFL) after his contract with the Montreal Alouettes expired.
March 2016: Exploring Coaching
Chad Johnson expressed interest in coaching in March 2016, publicly asking Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson for an opportunity to work with the team's receivers during training camp.
July 2016: Guest Coaching Role
In July 2016, Chad Johnson's request to coach was granted, as he joined the Cleveland Browns as a guest instructor during their training camp. Head coach Hue Jackson acknowledged Johnson's desire to explore coaching as a potential career path.
March 2017: Joining the Fundidores de Monterrey
In March 2017, Chad Johnson joined the Fundidores de Monterrey of the Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional de México, marking his foray into Mexican football.
April 2, 2017: Mexican Football League Debut
On April 2, 2017, Chad Johnson made a memorable debut in the Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional de México, catching three passes, including a 41-yard touchdown, to lead the Fundidores de Monterrey to victory over the Dinos de Saltillo.
April 28, 2017: Marriage Bootcamp Reality Stars: Family Edition Premiere
Chad Johnson appeared with his mother on the television show "Marriage Bootcamp Reality Stars: Family Edition." The show premiered on April 28, 2017.
2017: Brief Stint with Monterrey Fundidores
Chad Johnson played one game for the Mexican team Monterrey Fundidores of the Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional in 2017.
October 20, 2018: First Soccer Goal
Chad Johnson scored his first goal for Boca Raton FC on October 20, 2018, in a game against FC Boca Predators. The goal was a penalty.
March 12, 2019: Re-signs with Boca Raton FC
On March 12, 2019, Chad Johnson re-signed with Boca Raton FC for the 2019 Spring UPSL season.
May 24, 2019: Two Goal Game for Boca Raton FC
Chad Johnson scored both goals for Boca Raton FC in a 2-1 victory against the Palm Beach Breakers on May 24, 2019.
May 3, 2021: Exhibition Fight Against Brian Maxwell
Chad Johnson fought Brian Maxwell in an exhibition boxing match on May 3, 2021. The fight was part of the undercard for the Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Logan Paul fight. As an exhibition, the fight had no winner.
January 2022: Daughter's Birth
Chad Johnson and his fiance had a daughter in January 2022.
2022: Fox Sports Analyst
Chad Johnson worked as an analyst for Fox Sports during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
January 2023: Engagement
Chad Johnson became engaged in January 2023.
2023: Media Personality and Podcast Host
As of 2023, Chad Johnson is actively involved in sports media, serving as a panelist on the popular weekly highlight show "Inside the NFL" since its move to The CW. He also co-hosts the podcast "Nightcap" alongside Shannon Sharpe, further showcasing his personality and insights on a different platform.
2023: Participates in The Soccer Tournament
Chad Johnson was part of Nati SC in The Soccer Tournament in 2023.