- Rudi Johnson, former Cincinnati Bengals running back, has died at age 45.
- Reports from police and family confirm his death was a suicide.
- He had been struggling with mental health issues and potential CTE effects.
- Johnson was a Pro Bowl selection in 2004 and had three standout seasons.
- He is remembered for his community work through the Rudi Johnson Foundation.
The sports world is mourning the loss of former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson, who has died at the age of 45.
According to reports from September 23, 2025, the athlete’s death was confirmed by police and family sources, who indicated he had been struggling with significant mental health challenges.
What Happened to Former NFL RB Rudi Johnson?
Former NFL Pro Bowl running back Rudi Johnson has died. Authorities told media outlets that his death was ruled a suicide, which occurred just after midnight on Tuesday.
A source close to his family revealed that Johnson “had been recently struggling with mental health issues and the possible effects of CTE that he could not overcome”. The ex-NFL star was just days away from his 46th birthday.
Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died at 45 💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/tluu49YSVW
— TMZ (@TMZ) September 23, 2025
Johnson entered the league when the Cincinnati Bengals selected him in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. After limited action in his first two seasons, he seized the starting role in 2003 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s offense.
His most outstanding years came between 2004 and 2006, a period where he cemented his legacy as one of the league’s most reliable rushers.
Rudi Professional Career:
He finished his eight-season career with the Detroit Lions in 2008, amassing 5,979 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns overall.
While an official cause of death has not been released, family sources directly linked his passing to his struggles with mental health and the potential effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a brain disease associated with repeated head trauma common in contact sports like football and can only be definitively diagnosed after death.
This tragedy has reignited conversations about the long-term health risks faced by NFL players and the importance of mental health support for athletes after their careers end.
Remembering His Legacy Beyond the Field
Those close to him emphasized that in his final days, Johnson was focused on helping others, a reflection of his character off the field.
He established the Rudi Johnson Foundation in 2005, which was dedicated to supporting children and families through community-based programs and educational opportunities. This commitment to service is a defining part of the legacy he leaves behind.
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Last Updated on September 23, 2025 by 247 News Around The World
