Former Bengals Running Back Rudi Johnson Takes His Life

The NFL family is grieving the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of former star running back Rudi Johnson, who passed away at the age of 45 on Tuesday. Johnson’s death has spurred an outpouring of tributes from teammates, fans, and the broader sports community, underscoring the impact he had during his career. According to a family source who spoke with TMZ Sports, the ex-NFL athlete had recently been facing mental health challenges, including potential effects of CTE, which he struggled to confront. The source highlighted that Johnson aimed to assist others, both on and off the field, which was his priority. Bengals president Mike Brown expressed his sorrow, reflecting on Johnson as a remarkable player who was both reliable and beloved among peers. This tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden battles many athletes face after retiring from the sport. Rest in peace, Rudi.