A local standout from the University of Miami, Charles Johnson was the 28th overall selection in the 1992 draft and had a cup of coffee with the team that drafted him in 1994. 

In 1995, Johnson became the team’s starting catcher and quickly showcased a strong ability to control the running game. He was only the fourth rookie in major league history to earn a Gold Glove Award. Johnson quickly set a high standard with a specialized arm and precise technique, proving he could neutralize even the fastest opponents. During this period, he caught Al Leiter’s no-hitter in 1996, further establishing his reputation as a strategic expert behind the plate.

Johnson reached a historic efficiency ceiling in 1997, playing 123 errorless games, earning his first All-Star and third Gold Glove. He performed well in the World Series, with 10 hits and a home run, helping secure the organization's first title. Although his offense was secondary to his defense, his reliability was vital for a top pitching staff including Kevin Brown’s no-hitter, which Johnson caught.

After being part of the 1998 "fire sale" trade to the Dodgers, Johnson displayed notable resilience by rejoining the Marlins as a free agent in 2001. That year, he was selected for the All-Star team again, batting .259 with 18 home runs and catching another no-hitter, this time by A.J. Burnett. He left a lasting imprint on the franchise, becoming its all-time leader in games caught and concluding his time in Florida with 70 home runs. His defensive skills established a legacy that still sets the standard for Marlins catchers.

In November 2002, the organization initiated a tactical trade that sent Johnson to the Colorado Rockies as part of a deal for Juan Pierre and Mike Hampton.  Overall, he had four Gold Gloves, two All-Stars, and 517 hits.

Charles Johnson played his entire 11-year career with the Carolina Panthers with the last eight of them as a starting Defensive End.  Johnson would exceed the 10 Sack mark three times accumulating a total of 67.5.  Johnson was a member of the team that competed in Super Bowl 50, but while he was on the losing side, he had five tackles and a sack in the game.