Washington, D.C. – Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45, the team confirmed Tuesday. The cause of death and the exact date were not disclosed, leaving fans and the football community shocked by the sudden loss.
13-Year-Old Shot in the Head on His Way to School in Queens, Father Prays for a Miracle
What Happened?
The news of Johnson’s passing has left the NFL world in mourning. In an official statement, Bengals President Mike Brown remembered him as both a remarkable athlete and a beloved teammate:
“Rudi was a good person and an excellent runner for us. He was reliable 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.”
Who Was Rudi Johnson?
Rudi Johnson was drafted in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft after a standout college career at Auburn University. He went on to play seven seasons with the Bengals, starting 59 of 81 games.
- 5,742 rushing yards – fourth-most in Bengals history
- 48 rushing touchdowns – third-most in franchise history
- Three consecutive seasons with 12 rushing touchdowns
- 2004 Pro Bowl selection after rushing for 1,454 yards
Known for his consistency, strength, and durability, Johnson became a cornerstone of the Bengals’ offense during the mid-2000s.
College Career and Legacy
Before the NFL, Johnson excelled at Auburn University, where he was named SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2000. That season, he carried the ball 324 times for 1,567 yards and 13 touchdowns — one of the most productive single seasons in Auburn history.
Johnson’s journey began at Butler Community College in Kansas, where he led his team to back-to-back national championships. His outstanding performance at the junior college level earned him induction into the NJCAA Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
Public Reactions and Tributes
The news of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the football community. Auburn University remembered Johnson as “one of the best to ever wear orange and blue,” while fans and former teammates celebrated his legacy both on and off the field.
NFL players and coaches also shared condolences on social media, praising his professionalism, leadership, and lasting impact on the sport.
What’s Next?
At this time, no details have been shared about funeral arrangements or a public memorial. The Bengals, Auburn University, and the Johnson family are expected to announce further information in the coming days.
Conclusion
Rudi Johnson’s passing marks the loss of a true NFL and college football great. His contributions to the Bengals and Auburn Tigers left an unforgettable mark, and his legacy will live on through his records, achievements, and the countless fans who admired him.
The football world mourns his untimely death, honoring not just his talent on the field but also his character as a teammate and friend.