Rudi Johnson, a former Pro Bowl running back who starred for the Cincinnati Bengals and Auburn University, has passed away at the age of 45, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) in Florida has confirmed.
While the exact details of his death were not disclosed, MDSO detective Joseph R. Peguero Rivera informed CNN that a preliminary investigation is underway. “All indications are leading to (death by) suicide,” Rivera stated, adding that foul play is not suspected at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
Johnson was best known for his seven seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2001 to 2007, where he was a cornerstone of the team’s offense. He achieved three consecutive seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards (2004, 2005, 2006). His standout 2004 campaign, in which he ran for 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns, earned him a Pro Bowl selection. His 48 rushing touchdowns still rank third in the Bengals’ franchise history.
“Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us,” Bengals team 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.”
Johnson played his final NFL season with the Detroit Lions in 2008, retiring with career totals of 5,979 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns.
Before his professional career, Johnson had a single, dominant season at Auburn University in 2000 that made him a top NFL prospect. He was named the Southeastern Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year after accumulating 1,567 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading the Tigers to a 9-4 record. He also finished tenth in the Heisman Trophy voting that year. Following that season, the Bengals selected him in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft.
Auburn University honored Johnson on Tuesday, stating, “We mourn the loss of 2000 SEC Player of the Year Rudi Johnson. One of the best to ever wear the orange and blue. Rudi’s family, friends & teammates are in our prayers.”
A native of Chester, Virginia, Johnson was recently inducted into the 2025 Chesterfield County Sports Hall of Fame.
