The football world is mourning the loss of former Bengals running back and Auburn star Rudi Johnson, who died at the age of 45 early Tuesday morning. Police told TMZ that Johnson's death was ruled a suicide, and that he had been struggling with mental health challenges and possible effects of CTE.
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Johnson, a fourth-round pick by Cincinnati in the 2001 NFL Draft, became one of the most productive players in franchise history. He played seven of his eight NFL seasons with the Bengals, rushing for 5,979 yards and 49 touchdowns over 81 games with the team.
From 2004 through 2006, Johnson put together three straight seasons of at least 1,300 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2004.
In 2005, Johnson rushed for 1,458 yards, which remains the Bengals' single-season record. He followed that with 1,454 yards in 2006, the second-highest mark in team history. Bengals president Mike Brown released a statement remembering Johnson as both a standout on the field and a beloved figure in the locker room.
"Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us," Brown said. "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."
Johnson finished his career with the Detroit Lions in 2008, appearing in 14 games during their infamous 0-16 season. Before the NFL, he became a star at Auburn, rushing for 1,567 yards in 2000 — at the time trailing only Bo Jackson for the most in a single season in program history. He was named SEC Player of the Year.
Off the field, Johnson established the Rudi Johnson Foundation in 2005 to provide support and opportunities for children and families in need. Family members told TMZ he spent his final days helping others, reflecting the generosity that defined him long after his playing days.
