In his final year at the club, popular 2000 premiership player, Jason Johnson, was given a pass mark by the fans despite playing only four games.

The 30-year-old was given a 5.09/10 report card rating, up from 4.39/10 in 2007.

Johnson played 184 games since making his debut in 1997. He was taken with pick 28 in 1996.

 
2008
 
Games - 4
Kicks - 44
Handballs – 47
Marks – 22
Goals – 2

2008 fans’ rating - 5.09/10

2007

Games - 10
Kicks - 119
Handballs – 88
Marks – 64
Goals – 3

2007 fans’ rating - 4.39/10

2006

Games - 19
Kicks - 237
Handballs – 173
Marks – 11
Goals – 12
 
2006 fans’ rating - 6.21/10

Here is what some of the fans had to say about Johnson’s 2008 season:

Joseph Attard - Johno only played a handful of matches, but showed that he was welcome to stay because we loved him. Intensity, commitment and toughness. A disappointing way to end his career but he will be missed!

Greg Lewis - Jason was still a solid contributor in the games he played. Hampered by injury and the youth policy.

Mike Eising - Should have retired 12 months ago.

Graham Flynn - We'll miss Johnno. Did everything you'd expect from a quality player and person in his final year.

Cameron Gliese - Absolute champion. You will be missed JJ.

Bill Griffiths - Good on you Johnno. A fantastic career in which you gave the Bombers everything you had - and more. Best wishes for the future.

Jan Di Pietro - Showed great leadership and I'm sure taught the younger players a lot about how to be a professional footballer. Good luck Jason!

Rod Ansell - Jason had a great career with the Bombers but unfortunately injury prevented him from finishing the way he would have liked. His ability to win the hard ball will be missed and he should be recognised for his contribution to the Club.

Nic Jones - Legend who left the game gracefully.

Daniel Wright - Love ya JJ, time catches up with us all. Here's wishing you all the best in your future.

Michael Barratt - Good luck with whatever you do, you’re a champion.

James Brown - Can't give him a high rating, as he didn't play very often. He has great skills. I love him! He was our best contributor for the past 10 or so years. I think it’s a bit of a disgrace he got told to retire, rather than letting him decide for himself. He has been a champion for the club, and to do that to him... pitiful!

David Street - Here is a player who really put in all the time and always did his best. Unfortunately, he lost a bit of pace towards the end. Well done.

Brendan Burnie - Only four games and still averages over 22 possies. You'll be missed JJ.

Julian McGuire - No one tougher and still worked really hard when back late in the year. Unfortunately the game has passed him by.

Alan Betts - When overcame injury still showed glimpses of the champion he was. Never forget he carried the midfield for years.

Michael Vassallo - Was a champ back in his day let’s not forget that, younger guys should strive to b like him tough never give in attitude.

Caleb Slade - Had a horrid run with injury, but showed why he is a leader when he was on the field. Averaged 22 disposals per game and is sad fact to know that you are leaving, WE'LL MISS YOU MATE!

Andrew Fisher - Was a solid contributor to this club and will be greatly missed. Always got the job done and never complained. Good on you JJ and good luck in your future life outside footy!

Mark Elze - Poor JJ, just couldn’t get out of the starting blocks because of injury. Been a great servant of the club. Handled the frustrations of this year with typical class.

Philip Martin - Not a great year for Jason missing so many games, but what a great career at Essendon. Well done Jason.

Daniel Farrugia - Played well when given opportunities, great servant of the club. Good luck with the cooking!