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Former Cincinnati Bengals, who runs back Rudi Johnson, has died, the team announced on Tuesday. He was 45.
Johnson was a prominent race back for Auburn Tigers before Bengals chose him in the fourth round of the NFL draft in 2001. He spent seven seasons with Bengals and one with Detroit Lions. He was a pro bowler with Cincinnati in 2004.
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Cincinnati Bengals Fullback (32) Rudi Johnson wears the ball against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 18, 2005. (Tom Szczerbowski/USA Today Sports)
“Rudi was a fine person and an excellent race back for us,” Bengals said Mike Brown in a statement. “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 sad of his passing.”
TMZ Sports first reported Johnson’s death and cited the former NFL player’s family. Police told the outlets that Johnson died of suicide.
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Cincinnati Bengals runs back (32) Rudi Johnson runs against San Diego Chargers at Paul Brown Stadium on November 12, 2006. (Matthew Emmons/USA Today Sports)
Former Bengals star Chad Ochocinco was among those who paid tribute to Johnson on social media.
Johnson performed in 81 games for Bengals from 2001 to 2007. He started each game for Cincinnati in 2004 and rushed in 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns on his way to his Lone Pro Bowl choice. It started a string of three consecutive years, where he rushed for at least 1,000 meters.
Cincinnati Bengals runs back (32) Rudi Johnson runs against Carolina Panthers at Paul Brown Stadium on October 22, 2006. (Matthew Emmons/USA Today Sports)
He played in 14 games for Lions in 2008 before retiring.
