Exavier Johnson cleared to play

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Birmingham quarterback/wide receiver Exavier Johnson, who sustained a broken bone in his right hand before the 2007 season began, has received medical clearance to return to playing football.

Johnson brought a doctor’s note to Coach Ed Croson Monday, who then allowed the 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior to practice. Birmingham is preparing to face Sherman Oaks Notre Dame on Thursday.

Johnson spent all practice at the wide receiver spot. He wore a padded glove on his right hand, and will probably wear it against Notre Dame. Croson said he plans to get Johnson into the game on Thursday.

‘He’s still getting some strength in his hand but he can grip the ball,’ Croson said.

Johnson had been expected to miss the first five weeks of the season, possibly returning next week against Dorsey.

He transferred to Birmingham from Taft with the intent of playing quarterback. But when Johnson broke his band, Morey Croson, the coach’s son, became the starting quarterback. The No. 11 Patriots are 2-1 behind Morey, including an impressive upset of then-ranked No. 2 Long Beach Poly on Sept. 7.

Ed Croson said he has specific plays for Johnson at both quarterback and wide receiver, and plans to play him at both positions. ‘There are things Exavier can do that Morey can’t do and vice versa,’ Ed said. ‘It’s something we evaluate week to week.’

Perhaps. But if Morey directs Birmingham to another upset this week against Sherman Oaks Notre Dame, it’s hard to envision Johnson ever calling signals for the Patriots.

- Mike Terry