Veteran NFL quarterback Josh Johnson has continued his remarkable professional football career, with the Cincinnati Bengals listing him on their roster following his time with the Washington Commanders. Johnson, who made two starts for Washington during the 2025 season, has played for numerous teams since entering the league in 2008. His long career has also brought attention to his family background, particularly his mother, Rosemary Whisenton, who raised him in Oakland, California.
Johnson grew up in a single-parent household with three siblings. His mother worked multiple jobs while remaining closely involved in her children’s education and sporting activities. The quarterback has repeatedly credited her with teaching him discipline, humility, and the importance of helping others.
Who Are Josh Johnson’s Parents?
Josh Johnson was born on May 15, 1986, in Oakland, California. His mother is Rosemary Whisenton, a longtime employee of Oakland Technical High School.
Johnson was raised primarily by his mother alongside his three siblings. Although his family background has attracted interest throughout his NFL career, reliable public information about his biological father remains limited.
Rosemary worked hard to provide for her four children while maintaining a strong connection to their school and community.
Johnson attended Oakland Technical High School, where he developed his abilities in football, basketball, and track.
His childhood was also influenced by his extended family, including his cousin Marshawn Lynch, who later became a prominent NFL running back.
Josh Johnson’s Mother Rosemary Whisenton
Rosemary Whisenton played a central role in Johnson’s upbringing and education.
A single mother of four, she held several jobs to support her family, including work as a security guard, package handler, and retail employee.
She also spent more than four decades working at Oakland Technical High School, where she became a familiar and respected member of the school community.
Her responsibilities included coaching cheerleading, volleyball, and softball. She also helped oversee programs focused on student attendance and creating a supportive school environment.
Her commitment earned her the nickname “Ms. Tech.”
Johnson has spoken publicly about how his mother’s work ethic influenced his approach to professional football.
During a 2018 interview, he described her as someone who remained actively involved in everything her children needed.
“She’s hands-on, the one doing everything,” Johnson said.
Her example helped shape his willingness to accept different roles throughout a career involving frequent team changes.
What Is Known About Josh Johnson’s Father?
Josh Johnson has rarely discussed his biological father in public interviews.
Available reporting focuses primarily on his upbringing with Rosemary Whisenton and the responsibilities she carried as a single parent.
His father’s name, occupation, and relationship with Johnson have not been consistently established through reliable public sources.
Johnson has instead spoken extensively about the influence of his mother, extended family, coaches, and childhood community.
His experiences growing up in Oakland became an important part of his identity as he pursued football beyond high school.
Josh Johnson and His Cousin Marshawn Lynch
Johnson shares a close family connection with former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch.
The cousins grew up in Oakland and attended Oakland Technical High School, where they played football together.
In 2003, they helped the school win the Oakland Athletic League football championship.
Johnson played quarterback, while Lynch established himself as a standout running back before beginning his college career at the University of California, Berkeley.
Their connection continued after both entered professional football.
Lynch became a five-time Pro Bowl selection and won Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks.
Johnson developed a different career path, moving between NFL teams while remaining involved in youth development programs.
The cousins also collaborated on charitable initiatives benefiting children in their hometown.
Josh Johnson’s Family Foundation and Community Work
Johnson and Lynch helped establish the Fam1st Family Foundation in 2006.
The organization focuses on providing opportunities for young people, particularly children from underserved communities in Oakland and surrounding areas.
Its activities have included literacy programs, youth football camps, educational events, and community celebrations.
Johnson’s involvement reflects the importance his mother placed on education and community responsibility.
Despite spending much of his professional career outside California, he has maintained connections with Oakland Technical High School.
He has returned to the school’s football facilities during offseasons and participated in events recognizing former student-athletes.
In 2023, Johnson was honored as part of Oakland Tech’s inaugural Hall of Fame class.
His daughter Jhai, who was attending the school at the time, was also involved in athletics.
Josh Johnson’s Football Career and Family Life
Johnson attended the University of San Diego after graduating from Oakland Technical High School.
He played college football under head coach Jim Harbaugh and became one of the most productive quarterbacks in the university’s history.
Johnson finished his college career with 9,699 passing yards and 113 touchdown passes.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft.
He subsequently played for several NFL franchises, including the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, Washington, Baltimore Ravens, and San Francisco 49ers.
During the 2025 season, Johnson appeared in five games for Washington, completing 34 of 54 passes for 372 yards and one touchdown.
Away from football, Johnson is married to a woman named Zina and is a father of three.
As of November 2026, the veteran quarterback remains connected to professional football through the Cincinnati Bengals. His mother Rosemary’s long career in education and her commitment to raising four children continue to be important parts of his family story.
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