Former NFL running back Rudi Johnson died by suicide in Florida early Tuesday, police confirmed. He was 45. The Cincinnati Bengals and several family sources disclosed the information.
A Stellar Career Cut Short
Johnson was drafted in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Bengals after starring at Auburn University. He played primarily with Cincinnati from 2001 through 2007, then closed his professional career with the Detroit Lions in 2008.
Johnson earned Pro Bowl honors in 2004. In 2005 he set the Bengals’ record for most rushing yards in a single season, with 1,458. Between 2004 and 2006, he rushed for more than 1,300 yards each season and scored at least 12 touchdowns in each of those three seasons. Over his NFL career, he amassed 5,979 rushing yards, 49 rushing touchdowns, 113 receptions for 676 yards, plus two receiving touchdowns. Johnson ranks fourth on Cincinnati’s all-time rushing yardage list.
“Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us,” Bengals president Mike Brown said in a statement. “He was dependable and productive as a player, and very popular among his teammates. Everyone liked him and saw him as a dear friend. We are deeply saddened by his passing.”
According to family sources and media reports, Johnson had recently struggled with mental health issues and possibly the effects of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain condition tied to repeated head injuries.
Many former teammates, friends and fans immediately expressed grief. Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson posted on social media, “R.I.P Rudi Johnson.” Others recalled watching him carry the ball, urging him to know he was admired.
Rudi Johnson was born October 1, 1979, in Virginia. He attended Auburn after community college and made major impacts in college football, winning SEC Player of the Year in 2000.
Authorities say his death occurred just after midnight Tuesday in Florida. No foul play is suspected.