Former Bengals Star Rudi Johnson Dies at 45 Amid CTE Struggles

Rudi Johnson, a former Cincinnati Bengals running back and Auburn standout, has died at age 45 after struggling with mental health issues and possible effects of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Johnson had a notable football career, including setting the Bengals' single-season rushing record and earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2004, as well as being named SEC Player of the Year during his collegiate career at Auburn. Beyond the field, he co-founded the Rudi Johnson Foundation in 2005 to support children and families in his hometown community of Ettrick, Virginia. Johnson was recently inducted into the Chesterfield Sports Hall of Fame in 2025, further recognizing his impact on and off the field. His family described him as a loving father and dedicated family man, and his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, teammates, and the football community. An official autopsy report has not yet been released, but his family believes his mental health struggles played a major role in his passing.