—
**Houston Texans Unveil “Andre Johnson” Statue, Honor Star with \$1,000,000 Charitable Donation and Youth Empowerment Initiative**
*Houston, TX – June 5, 2025*
In an emotional and unforgettable moment for fans of the Houston Texans, the franchise paid tribute to its greatest-ever player by unveiling a statue of legendary wide receiver **Andre Johnson** outside NRG Stadium. The ceremony, attended by Johnson, team executives, current and former players, and thousands of fans, marked a major milestone in the team’s history—and a bold step toward the future.
- As part of the celebration, the Texans also announced a **\$1,000,000 charitable donation** to launch the **Andre Johnson Impact Initiative**—a long-term program focused on youth empowerment, education, and community development across the Houston area.
### “He Was Our First Superstar”
The 9-foot bronze statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Omari Booker, captures Johnson in mid-stride—hands extended, eyes locked on the ball, symbolic of the relentless work ethic and grace that defined his 12 seasons in Houston. It now stands at the entrance to NRG Park’s Liberty Gate, where fans can pay homage to the man who helped put the Texans on the map.
Texans Chair and CEO Cal McNair spoke at the unveiling:
> “Andre Johnson wasn’t just our first superstar—he’s the heart of our franchise. He made us believe in greatness. And today, we honor not only his legacy on the field but his commitment to making life better for Houston’s youth.”
### “This City Raised Me Too”
Andre Johnson, dressed in a sharp navy-blue suit and visibly moved, addressed the roaring crowd:
> “I came here as a quiet kid from Miami. Houston didn’t just cheer for me—it raised me. This statue means the world, but the real honor is being able to give something back.”
The crowd erupted in chants of “Dre! Dre! Dre!” as Johnson embraced family members and former teammates like Matt Schaub, Arian Foster, and DeAndre Hopkins, who were all in attendance.
### The Andre Johnson Impact Initiative
The Texans’ \$1 million donation will launch the **Andre Johnson Impact Initiative**, in partnership with Johnson’s foundation and several local nonprofits. The program will focus on:
* **STEM and Sports Education**: Funding after-school programs that combine athletics and academic achievement.
* **Mentorship & Leadership Camps**: Creating leadership opportunities for at-risk youth through summer camps and year-round mentorship.
* **Community Grants**: Providing microgrants to local organizations working on juvenile justice reform, literacy, and youth mental health.
Johnson’s own foundation has long been known for hosting annual shopping sprees for underprivileged children—an initiative he quietly funded during his playing days. The Texans’ support now supercharges that legacy.
### A City’s Symbol of Excellence
Fans flooded social media with photos and tributes, with #ForeverTexan trending nationally on Twitter/X within the hour. Johnson’s impact on and off the field was echoed by many, including Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner:
> “Andre Johnson wasn’t just a football player. He was a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets humility and hard work. This statue and this initiative are reminders of how much he’s given us.”
—
**About Andre Johnson**
A seven-time Pro Bowler and member of the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team, Andre Johnson is the Texans’ all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Inducted into the Texans Ring of Honor in 2017, he remains deeply involved in community work and youth advocacy. He is also a 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.
—
Would you like a condensed version of this article for a soc
ial media campaign, press release, or video script?
