Tragedy strikes as former NFL star, Rudi Johnson passes away, with condolences and heartfelt tributes flooding in from fans

According to a report from TMZ, Rudi Johnson was found dead in his Florida home on September 23, 2025.

Rudi Johnson’s Demise

According to TMZ, Rudi Johnson’s demise stemmed from suicide, which a family source confirmed was linked to his struggles with mental health issues and the possible effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).

The family source claimed that Rudi Johnson’s utmost priority prior to his passing was helping individuals both on and off the field.

Rudi Johnson’s Biography

Rudi Johnson was born on October 1, 1979, in Ettrick, Virginia.

He had his primary education at Thomas Dale High School in Chester, Virginia, where he excelled as a two-way player under head coach Victor Williams.

During his time at Thomas Dale, Johnson broke the school’s rushing record, previously held by his friend and mentor, Henry Jefferson.

Before high school, Johnson played football at six years old with the Ettrick Trojans of the Chesterfield Quarterback League.

Rudi Johnson commenced his career as an NFL player in 2001 as a running back for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Additionally, he played for the Detroit Lions in 2008, after spending seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2001 to 2007.

He leaves behind his mother, Janice Johnson, who was a significant influence in his life and career.

She raised him as a single parent in Ettrick, Virginia, instilling values of resilience and community service.

Notably, Rudi Johnson’s demise leaves behind an irreplaceable void in the NFL, especially for the Cincinnati Bengals, where he spent seven seasons and earned Pro Bowl honors in 2004.