Looking to get the full scoop on rising AFL talent Zak Johnson? You’re in the right place. In this article, you will know Zak Johnson’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Discover how one of Essendon Football Club’s youngest stars made his mark in footy, his income journey, the latest on his relationship status, and the key numbers driving his professional success.
Zak Johnson’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zak Johnson |
| Date of Birth | 24 December 2006 |
| Age | 18 |
| Education | Parade College (captained football team 2024) |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 185cm (6ft 1in) |
| Weight | 78kg (172lb) |
| Turned Pro | 2024 (AFL Draft Pick 70 – Essendon) |
| Net Worth | $120,000 |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $70,000 |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Zak Johnson began his football journey at the Epping Football Club before joining St Mary’s in the Northern Football Netball League. From a young age, Johnson showed promise with his ball skills and work ethic.
He attended Parade College and became a key player, even captaining the school’s football squad to the 2024 Herald Sun Shield championship and earning best-on-ground honors in the Grand Final. Zak also led the Northern Knights in the Talent League during his draft year, further polishing his leadership and playmaking skills.
Johnson represented Vic Metro at the U18 National Championships in both 2023 and 2024. As a consistent performer, he earned strong praise for his foot skills, decision-making, and all-round ability to read the play.
By the time AFL recruiters took notice, Zak had already set himself apart as one of the best young talents in Victoria, showing leadership and composure beyond his years.
Professional Career
The Essendon Football Club selected Zak Johnson with pick 70 in the 2024 AFL Draft, and he wasted no time making an impression. Throughout early 2025, he played for Essendon’s reserve (VFL) team, delivering consistent performances and catching the eye of coaches with his smooth skills and vision.
His efforts earned him a senior call-up, and he made his AFL debut in Round 12 of the 2025 season at The Gabba against the Brisbane Lions.
Johnson played as a versatile midfielder, handling pressure and pace on the big stage. Coaches praised his decision-making and ability to hit targets under stress.
He continues to earn more opportunities with each game thanks to his strong defensive work rate and team-oriented approach. Zak is quickly building a reputation as one of the season’s most exciting young prospects for Essendon.
Zak Johnson’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Zak Johnson has an estimated net worth of $120,000. This amount reflects his AFL rookie contract, match payments, and progression in his professional journey.
Contract
After being picked by Essendon in the 2024 AFL Draft, Johnson signed a standard two-year rookie contract. These rookie deals typically start with a base salary plus match payments, in line with AFL minimums for first-year players.
Given his draft position and club, sources indicate his deal is worth around $70,000 for the 2025 season. The contract gives Essendon an option for a second year based on his development and performance.
Salary
His 2025 base salary stands at around $70,000. Match payments (bonuses for each game played) and small performance incentives could add extra income, potentially bringing his total above $75,000 if he continues getting senior games.
Essendon supports player development with strong welfare and education programs as part of their contract structure.
Career Earnings
| Year | Club | Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Essendon (AFL) | $70,000 |
Career Stats
| Season | Club | Games | Goals | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Essendon | 6 | 2 | 84 | 23 | 19 |
FAQs
1. Who is Zak Johnson and what is his current football club?
Zak Johnson is an English professional footballer born on July 30, 2004. He plays as a centre-back for Notts County, currently on loan from Premier League side Sunderland. He continues to develop his skills through regular match experience in competitive leagues.
2. What were Johnson’s early achievements at Sunderland?
Johnson started his playing career with Sunderland and made his first senior appearance at age 16 in an EFL Trophy match, becoming the youngest outfield player to feature for Sunderland in nearly 50 years. That milestone highlighted his early promise and set the stage for his professional development.
3. Has Zak Johnson experienced significant loan spells during his career?
During his career, Johnson has experienced several loan spells to gain valuable match experience. He has played for Hartlepool United and Dundalk on loan. At Dundalk, he won the Supporters’ Club Player of the Month award for March 2024, which showed his impact at the club before returning to Sunderland.
4. Has Johnson signed any notable contracts in his professional journey?
Johnson signed his first professional contract with Sunderland in July 2022 on a deal lasting until 2025. In September 2023, he renewed his contract, extending his commitment to Sunderland until 2026, showing the club’s faith in his growth as a defender.
5. What did Zak Johnson say about his time on loan at Dundalk?
Johnson described his loan at Dundalk as highly valuable, emphasizing how the experience contributed to his maturity and personal development. He stated that the lessons learned during his time there would benefit him throughout his professional and personal life.
