Jessica Simpson engaged to Needham native

NEEDHAM, Mass. -- Jessica Simpson is the latest star to tell the world she's getting married, and her fiancé has local ties.

“I don't fear falling in love again it'll happen in due time,”

Jessica Simpson announced that she's tying the knot just a week after her ex, Nick Lachey, got engaged to his longtime girlfriend Vanessa Manillo.

The former NFL player, Eric Johnson launched his football career in Needham, Massachusetts.

Sorry guys - Jess is off the market, but if she's gotta go, at least it’s to a local boy.

“Yeah, you gotta give it up for a Needham guy Needham High,” said Jeff Escott.

His Needham High football coach described him as a "fine young man and an excellent student and football player"

7NEWS also asked his high school football coach if he had any specific memories any funny stories about Johnson, and he said he actually remembers he was very particular about how his uniform looked, and how it fit.

Hopefully they're the perfect fit for each other. Jessica was married to Nick for three years, and the pair had their own reality show called "Newlyweds."

Johnson’s five year marriage ended in a divorce that was just finalized last month, though he and Simpson have been dating for 6 months.

Simpson, who was not shy about sharing their whirlwind romance over Twitter, including a public display of affection, was all about publicly displaying the ring.

Holding a young fan at an appearance, she flashed her new jewelry - a Neil Lane engagement ring with a center ruby and pear shaped diamonds.

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