Selected in the fourth round (109th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft out of Alabama—where he left as one of the most decorated defensive linemen in Crimson Tide history—Jarret Johnson arrived in Baltimore as a relentless, high-motor defender. Converting from defensive end to outside linebacker in Rex Ryan’s complex defensive system, Johnson became the ultimate unheralded anchor on an edge unit stacked with marquee star power, earning the enduring respect of coaches, teammates, and the Baltimore faithful.

Johnson embodied Baltimore’s tough "Play Like a Raven" spirit. While pass-rushers gained fame for chasing sacks, Johnson focused on the tough, vital job of establishing a solid edge against the run. With aggressive hand placement, strong lower-body anchoring, and relentless energy, he often took on tight ends and fullbacks, disrupting perimeter blocks and driving ball-carriers back inside towards Ray Lewis and Ed Reed.

Johnson's true distinction lay in his exceptional durability and selflessness during his nine years in Charm City. Initially, he played as a versatile rotational player across the front seven for his first four seasons. In 2007, he became a full-time starter and began a remarkable iron-man streak. From 2007 to 2011, he started 80 straight regular-season games, setting a franchise record for consecutive starts by a defensive player, showcasing his relentless preparation and mental resilience.

His best individual campaign came in 2009, when he recorded career highs of 6.0 sacks, 50 tackles, and two forced fumbles, and added a memorable interception return for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs in the postseason. Whether dropping into zone coverage, rushing the passer, or setting the edge, Johnson played with selfless discipline that helped Baltimore's defense consistently rank among the NFL's elite throughout the late 2000s.

Johnson left Baltimore after 2011, ending his career with the San Diego Chargers before retiring in 2015. In nine seasons with the Ravens (2003–2011), he played 143 games (80 starts), with 20.0 sacks, 402 tackles, 30 for loss, and five forced fumbles.