The Bengals’ owner, Mike Brown, expressed profound sadness following the news that former player Rudy Johnson took his own life on Tuesday, September 23.
Johnson was with the Bengals from 2001 to 2007 and holds the record for the team’s single-season rushing yards.
“Rudy was a wonderful person and an excellent running back for us,” Brown stated. “He was a key player, very productive, and immensely liked among his teammates. Everyone considered him a dear friend. We’re heartbroken by his passing.”
Johnson died in Florida shortly after midnight on that Tuesday, as confirmed by police to various outlets.
Reports indicate that Johnson struggled with mental health issues in recent times, along with potential effects from CTE that he hadn’t managed to deal with.
He spent seven of his eight professional years with the Bengals after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft.
In the mid-2000s, Johnson was recognized as one of the top running backs in the league, consistently achieving over 1,300 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns each season from 2004 to 2006.
He had a standout 2004 season, rushing for 1,454 yards and earning a Pro Bowl selection—the only one in his career.
His 1,458 rushing yards in 2005 are still the highest in Bengals’ history, with his performance in 2004 ranking sixth overall and 1,309 rushing yards in 2006.
Johnson’s total of 5,742 rushing yards places him fourth in team history, behind Corey Dillon, James Brooks, and Joe Mixon.
He concluded his NFL career in 2008 with the winless Lions.
Former teammate Chad “Ocho Cinco” Johnson tweeted a tribute, expressing his sorrow with “Rip Rudi Johnson.”
Johnson’s achievement at Auburn before joining the Bengals was significant; he was named SEC Player of the Year after an impressive season with 1,567 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
Auburn’s football account shared, “We mourn the loss of 2000 SEC Player of the Year Rudi Johnson, one of the best to wear orange and blue. Our thoughts are with Rudy’s family, friends, and teammates. #Wareagle.”
If you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis, please reach out for help by calling or texting 988 for confidential support.
