Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45.
The Cincinnati Bengals announced the passing of their longtime running back on Tuesday.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rudi Johnson. pic.twitter.com/wXTd8jgEBl
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) September 23, 2025
Johnson spent seven of his eight NFL seasons with the team from 2001 to 2007, finishing his career with the Detroit Lions in 2008.
“Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us,” Bengals president Mike Brown said in a statement. “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.”
A native of Ettrick, VA, Johnson was originally taken with the 100th overall selection of the 2001 NFL Draft out of Auburn where was the 2000 SEC Player of the Year after rushing for 1,567 yards on 324 carries.
Johnson would go on to appear in 95 NFL games, rushing for 5,979 yards on 1,517 carries with 49 touchdowns. A Pro Bowler in 2004, John eclipsed the 1,000-yard rushing mark on three occasions.
His best season statistically came in 2005 when he amassed 1,458 yards on 337 attempts with 12 majors.
