Yardbarker
x
Football World Reacts to Death of Cincinnati Bengals Legend Rudi Johnson
Nov 12, 2006; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back (32) Rudi Johnson runs against the San Diego Chargers at Paul Brown Stadium. The Chargers beat the Bengals 49-41. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images © copyright Matthew Emmons Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images

Football World Reacts to Death of Cincinnati Bengals Legend Rudi Johnson

Originally posted on Cincinnati Bengals on SI
By James Rapien  |  Last updated Sep 23, 2025 4:45 PM ET

Bengals legend Rudi Johnson passed away on Tuesday morning. He was only 45-years-old.

The Bengals selected Johnson in the fourth round (100th overall) in the 2001 NFL Draft. He went on to run for 5,742 yards over seven seasons with Cincinnati. Johnson helped the Bengals finish 11-5 and win the AFC North in 2005. He ran for a career-high 1,458 yards and 12 touchdowns. Johnson's 1,458 rushing yards is still a club record.

Bengals owner Mike Brown released a statement on Johnson's passing. The football world also reacted, with former coaches, teammates and teams sharing thoughts on the star running back.

Check out some of the reactions below:

"Rest in love, Rudi Johnson," former Bengals strength coach Cliff Marshall wrote on X. "One of my favorite players to coach for the Bengals."

"We mourn the loss of 2000 SEC Player of the Year Rudi Johnson. One of the best to ever wear the orange and blue," Auburn wrote on their X account. "Rudi's family, friends & teammates are in our prayers."

"We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our friend and client, Rudi Johnson," agent Peter Schaffer tweeted. "Rudi lived his life in the service of others. He was a man who disdained self-promotion and avoided the spotlight, yet his presence was always felt through his positivity, energy, and generosity."

Tommy Tuberville, who was Johnson's head coach at Auburn, wrote a heartfelt message on X:

Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of a true Auburn great and one of my former players, Rudi Johnson," Tuberville wrote. "Rudi was more than just an elite running back. He was a true Auburn man on and off the field. My prayers are with his family and loved ones."

Former Bengals fullback Nick Luchey called for Johnson to be inducted into the Ring Of Honor. Johnson and Luchey were teammates for three seasons (2001-02, 2005).

"My dawg running through arm tackles from angels right now!" Luchey wrote on Instagram. "I love you bro!! Rudi J!! Ring of Honor him NOW!! Support Rudi’s Family and keep them in your prayers."

Check out those reactions and plenty of others below:

This article first appeared on Cincinnati Bengals on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.