Player Details

Name

Tate Johnson

Height

5' 7"

Weight

161 lbs

Date of Birth

7.10.2005 (20)

Birthplace

Tampa, FL, USA

Position

Defender
Career Summary

Johnson was selected 15th overall by Whitecaps FC in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft after spending a season at the University of North Carolina.

Prior to the SuperDraft, Johnson agreed to a Generation adidas contract with MLS, a joint program between the league and adidas dedicated to developing exceptional talent in a professional environment. Johnson is under contract through 2027, with club options for 2028 and 2029.

WHITECAPS FC

'25: In his first MLS season, Johnson showcased his ability to play consistently at a high level, starting 32 of his 42 appearances across all competitions. He scored his first professional goal against CF Montréal on March 8 and added a further two assists to his attacking catalogue. Johnson's performances during the 2025 season earned him a call-up to the United States U-20 men's national team during the June international window. In addition, Johnson was the recipient of the club's Jock McDonald Unsung Hero award, as voted by supporter groups.

COLLEGE

Johnson started 17 matches as a freshman in his lone season at the University of North Carolina, while adding one goal and two assists.

CROWN LEGACY FC

Johnson made five starts in 10 appearances during the 2023 season for Crown Legacy FC, the MLS NEXT Pro side for Charlotte FC, recording one assist.

TAMPA BAY ROWDIES

Johnson made his professional debut for Tampa Bay Rowdies as a 16-year-old in 2022 after coming through their academy. He would go on to make three starts and 13 combined appearances for the Rowdies in the USL Championship and U.S. Open Cup.

INTERNATIONAL

Johnson represented the United States at the U-20 level in June 2025.

YOUTH

In his youth, Johnson spent time with MLS NEXT side Tampa Bay United

FUN FACT

Johnson’s father, Brian, played five seasons in MLS, winning MLS Cup in 2000 with Kansas City Wizards.