Police Confirm Rudi Johnson’s Death by Suicide in Florida — Bengals Owner Mike Brown Shares Heartbreaking Final Call

The sports world is in mourning after authorities confirmed that former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died by suicide in Florida. TMZ Sports first broke the news on Sunday morning, September 21, with police officials later holding a press briefing to confirm the tragic details. Johnson, 44, was found at a private residence near Orlando late Saturday evening, sending shockwaves across the NFL and beyond.

Police Confirmation

According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, officers responded to a 911 call shortly before 10:30 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, they discovered Johnson deceased inside the residence. Early speculation had swirled across social media, but investigators quickly clarified that this was not a case of foul play.

“Based on evidence at the scene and statements provided to our investigators, we can confirm that Mr. Johnson’s death was the result of suicide,” a police spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with his family, his former teammates, and the countless fans who admired him.”

Officials added that toxicology reports will be conducted as standard procedure but emphasized that there were no indications of criminal activity.

Mike Brown Reveals Final Call

Perhaps the most emotional revelation came from Bengals owner Mike Brown, who shared with reporters that he had received a phone call from Johnson just hours before his death.

Brown recounted that Johnson reached out unexpectedly late Friday night, speaking candidly about his struggles.

“He told me he felt like he was running out of strength,” Brown revealed. “He said he had been carrying so much pain inside, and he wanted to thank me for believing in him when others didn’t. I tried to encourage him and reminded him how many lives he touched, but I never imagined it would be the last time I heard his voice.”

Brown described the conversation as heartbreaking in hindsight. “Looking back, it was a goodbye. I wish I could have done more. We all wish we could have done more.”

A Career Remembered

Rudi Johnson rose to NFL stardom in the early 2000s as one of the league’s most dependable running backs. After being drafted in the fourth round in 2001, Johnson became the heart of the Bengals’ offense, setting a franchise single-season rushing record with 1,458 yards in 2004. He followed with back-to-back 1,300-yard seasons, helping Cincinnati become a playoff contender.

Known for his bruising style and relentless determination, Johnson earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2004 and remains one of the most beloved players in Bengals history.

Teammates recalled him as a quiet leader. “Rudi wasn’t the loudest guy in the locker room, but he had this fire,” said former quarterback Carson Palmer. “He carried us on his back, literally. To lose him like this, it hurts deeply.”

Reaction from the NFL

News of Johnson’s passing spread rapidly across the league. Dozens of players, both past and present, took to social media to honor him.

Chad Johnson (Ochocinco), Johnson’s longtime teammate, posted: “This one hurts more than words can say. Rudi was family to me on and off the field. Rest easy, brother.”

The NFL Players Association released a statement urging current and former players to seek mental health resources: “Rudi Johnson’s death is a tragedy that underscores the importance of mental wellness in our community. No one should carry their pain alone.”

A Broader Conversation

The tragedy has reignited conversations about the mental health challenges faced by athletes after retirement. While Johnson had stayed connected to football through youth camps and charitable appearances, those close to him admitted he struggled with the transition away from the NFL spotlight.

“Rudi loved the game, but when the cheering stopped, he felt lost,” one former teammate shared anonymously. “That’s something a lot of us deal with, but few talk about.”

Mental health advocates pointed to Johnson’s death as a painful reminder of the pressures athletes face during and after their careers. “Suicide is a national crisis,” said Dr. Angela Morris, a sports psychologist. “We must continue to break the stigma, provide support systems, and remind people that asking for help is a sign of strength.”

Fans in Mourning

Outside Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, fans gathered Sunday morning, leaving flowers, jerseys, and handwritten notes near a makeshift memorial. Some wore Johnson’s iconic No. 32 jersey, others lit candles in silence.

“He gave us some of the best years of Bengals football,” said longtime fan Lisa Carter. “I brought my son here to show him that heroes can struggle too. We have to remember that.”

Moving Forward

The Bengals organization announced they will honor Johnson with a moment of silence at their next home game. Players will wear a helmet sticker featuring Johnson’s number, and the team is planning a tribute video celebrating his career highlights.

Mike Brown also confirmed that the team will contribute to mental health charities in Johnson’s memory. “We want Rudi’s legacy to include helping others find hope in moments of despair,” Brown said.

Conclusion

The loss of Rudi Johnson is a devastating blow to his family, the Bengals, and the entire football community. More than just a running back, he was a symbol of resilience, toughness, and quiet determination. But his death also underscores a painful reality: even the strongest on the field can be battling unseen struggles off it.

As tributes pour in, one message is clear: Johnson’s life will be remembered not only for the yards he ran and the records he set, but for the love he inspired. His passing is a call to action — to look out for one another, to speak openly about mental health, and to never assume silence means peace.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for immediate support.

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