Former Cambridge Wolverine overcomes the odds, sets sights on the NFL [Video]

On the cusp of realizing a lifelong dream, Canadian Theo Johnson’s path to the National Football League (NFL) is a story of hardship and triumph.

Johnson is one of the top tight end prospects coming into this week’s NFL Draft. The 23-year-old is coming off his fourth NCAA season at Penn State, but before excelling in the sport of football Johnson was first introduced to the game in Cambridge, Ont.

Johnson grew up with his mother Amy and five brothers. At a young age the family endured a stretch of domestic violence at the hands of Theo’s father.

After her separation, Amy signed the boys up in different recreational activities. For Theo, his outlet was football.

“It was obvious the kid loved football,” said Steve Amis, past president of the Cambridge Minor Football Association. “The whole family was tight-knit.”

Theo played for the Cambridge Wolverines, bouncing between multiple positions.

“He …