
Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has been confirmed dead. He was only 45.
His untimely demise was announced by the Bengals on Tuesday with few details about what led to the incident.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating his death. They have indicated there has been no sign of foul play so far, and all roads may be leading to the possibility of suicide or an undiagnosed disease.
In a statement on X, the Bengals eulogized Rudi, called him a “fine person” and “an excellent running back” who was very dependable and productive.
Johnson did not start making waves at the beginning of his time with the Bengals. He sat on the bench for the first two seasons, only behind starter Corey Dillon.
In his third season, Johnson was given an opportunity when Dillon was injured, and he did not fail. He gave the coach nine reasons why he was a contender for the starting position when he scored nine rushing touchdowns in 215 attempts.
Before the next season, the Bengals traded Dillon and left the running back mantle in Johnson’s hands, and he stepped up.
Rudi gave the Bengals three beautiful seasons, setting records and breaking them. In 2007, he started dealing with injuries till he was picked up by the Detroit Lions.
