Former NFL Bengals Pro Bowl RB Rudi Johnson dies by suicide at 45

Former NFL running back Rudi Johnson, best known for his record-setting years with the Cincinnati Bengals, has died by suicide in Florida, police confirmed Tuesday. He was 45.

The Bengals organization and family sources confirmed the news, sending shockwaves through the football world.

A Standout Career

Johnson was drafted in the 4th round of the 2001 NFL Draft out of Auburn University, where he was named SEC Player of the Year in 2000. He went on to become a Bengals fan favorite, playing in Cincinnati from 2001–2007 before closing his career with the Detroit Lions in 2008.

In 2004, Johnson earned Pro Bowl honors. The following year he set the Bengals’ single-season rushing record with 1,458 yards — a mark that stood for years. From 2004 to 2006, he rushed for over 1,300 yards each season and scored at least 12 touchdowns per year.

By the end of his NFL career, Johnson racked up:

• 5,979 rushing yards

• 49 rushing touchdowns

• 113 catches for 676 yards

• 2 receiving TDs

He still ranks fourth on Cincinnati’s all-time rushing list.

Remembered On and Off the Field

“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.”

Check out some of the reactions below:

Former teammates and fans have been posting tributes. Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson shared simply: “R.I.P Rudi Johnson.”

“Rest in love, Rudi Johnson,” former Bengals strength coach Cliff Marshall wrote on X. “One of my favorite players to coach for the Bengals.”

“We mourn the loss of 2000 SEC Player of the Year Rudi Johnson. One of the best to ever wear the orange and blue,” Auburn wrote on their X account. “Rudi’s family, friends & teammates are in our prayers.”

“We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our friend and client, Rudi Johnson,” agent Peter Schaffer tweeted. “Rudi lived his life in the service of others. He was a man who disdained self-promotion and avoided the spotlight, yet his presence was always felt through his positivity, energy, and generosity.”

Rest well Rudi J 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/6aDxba1XgP

— Chad Johnson (@ochocinco) September 23, 2025

Remembering Rudi 🧡

📰: https://t.co/YOlqzbQNnu pic.twitter.com/XjQy4Tqhfk

— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) September 23, 2025

Rest in love Rudi Johnson. One of my favorite players to coach for the @Bengals. pic.twitter.com/W79cRPbsfZ

— Clif Marshall (@ClifMarshall) September 23, 2025

We mourn the loss of 2000 SEC Player of the Year Rudi Johnson.

One of the best to ever wear the orange and blue.

Rudi’s family, friends & teammates are in our prayers.#WarEagle🦅 pic.twitter.com/XpUV6tiAiF

— Auburn Football (@AuburnFootball) September 23, 2025

Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of a true Auburn great and one of my former players, Rudi Johnson.

Rudi was more than just an elite running back. He was a true Auburn man on and off the field. My prayers are with his family and loved ones.

— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) September 23, 2025

Personal Struggles

According to family sources, Johnson had recently been battling mental health issues and may have been dealing with symptoms linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) — a degenerative brain condition associated with repeated head trauma.

A Life Cut Short

Born October 1, 1979 in Virginia, Johnson’s journey took him from community college to Auburn, where he dominated before making it to the NFL. His legacy as one of the Bengals’ most reliable backs lives on with fans who cheered him every Sunday.

Authorities say Johnson’s death occurred just after midnight Tuesday in Florida. Police have ruled out foul play.

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If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.