Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45, his family confirmed to TMZ Sports. While an official cause of death has not been released, sources shared that Johnson had long battled mental health struggles and may have suffered from the effects of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), challenges he was ultimately unable to overcome.
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain condition linked to repeated head injuries, according to the Mayo Clinic. Over time, these injuries can cause brain cell damage, leading to degeneration that worsens as the disease progresses.
CTE can only be confirmed after death through a brain autopsy. Experts stress that it’s not caused by just one head injury, but rather repeated impacts, which are common in contact sports or military service.
Rudi Ali Johnson (October 1, 1979 – September 2025) was an American football running back best known for his standout years with the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL. Born in Petersburg, Virginia, Johnson grew up with a natural talent for football and quickly developed a reputation as a powerful, downhill runner who wore down defenses with his relentless style.
He began his college career at Butler Community College in Kansas, where he became a junior college legend. Johnson’s dominant play earned him NJCAA All-American honors and national attention before transferring to Auburn University for his junior year. In 2000, he rushed for over 1,500 yards at Auburn, leading the SEC in rushing and earning SEC Player of the Year honors. His one season with the Tigers cemented his place as one of the program’s most impactful running backs.
The Cincinnati Bengals selected Johnson in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft. After backing up star running back Corey Dillon early in his career, Johnson emerged as the team’s starter in 2003. He became the focal point of the Bengals’ offense, known for his bruising running style, ball security, and ability to move the chains.
Johnson’s peak years came between 2004 and 2006, when he rushed for over 1,400 yards in three consecutive seasons. In 2004, he set the Bengals’ single-season rushing record with 1,454 yards, a mark that stood until Cedric Benson broke it in 2009. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2004 and helped lead the Bengals to an AFC North title in 2005, their first playoff appearance in 15 years. Fans admired his workhorse mentality, consistency, and toughness.
After injuries slowed him later in his career, Johnson spent his final NFL season with the Detroit Lions in 2008 before retiring from professional football. Post-NFL, he remained connected to the game and to his community, making appearances at football camps and charity events. Also, Johnson created a foundation dedicated to helping children and families through community-based programs.
