Rudi Johnson, the former Cincinnati Bengals running back who ranks among the franchise's top rushers, has died at the age of 45. The news was first reported by TMZ, which stated that Johnson passed away shortly after midnight on Tuesday, September 23, in his home state of Florida. A cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
The Bengals released a statement expressing their sorrow. Team president Mike Brown said: 'Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us. 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.'
Born Burudi Ali Johnson in Virginia, he began his college career at Butler Community College in Kansas before transferring to Auburn University. In his final season at Auburn, he set a single-season rushing record with 1,567 yards on 324 carries and was named the 2000 SEC Player of the Year. Auburn Football also paid tribute, calling him 'one of the best to ever wear the orange and blue.'
Johnson was selected by the Bengals in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. After limited action in his first two seasons, he emerged as a star, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2004. He played for Cincinnati until 2007, then spent one season with the Detroit Lions before retiring in 2008. In retirement, he founded the Rudi Johnson Foundation with his mother to support children and families.
Johnson was believed to have suffered from mental health issues related to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to repeated head trauma. He is survived by his family and former teammates.
