It is a sad day in Cincinnati today as former Bengals star running back Rudi Johnson has passed away. Johnson was only 45 years old, but had battled health issues in recent years. The Bengals broke the news on X (Twitter), but did not state a cause of death.
Johnson’s Career
Johnson played for Cincinnati from 2001 through 2007, and finished his career the following year with the Detroit Lions. He sat much of his first two seasons behind workhorse back Corey Dillon, but he finally got his chance in 2003 when Dillon battled injuries. When Johnson finally got his shot, he literally took the ball and ran with it. He racked up 957 yards on 215 carries to finish out the season, scoring nine touchdowns.
Dillon was traded that offseason, paving the way for Johnson to be a full-time starter. The 2001 fourth-round pick broke the Bengals’ single-season rushing record two consecutive seasons, running for 1454 yards in 2004 and 1458 yards in 2005. (The latter record still stands.) He scored 12 touchdowns in each of those seasons. The budding star followed that up with 1306 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2006.
Sadly, in 2007, injuries were able to do what defenses could not–slow the former Auburn star down. He was limited to just 11 games, 497 yards, and three touchdowns for the Bengals that year. Cincinnati cut him in the offseason, and he had only 76 carries with the Lions in 2008, accumulating 237 yards and one touchdown. For his career, Johnson totaled 5979 rushing yards and 49 rushing touchdowns on 1517 carries. He added 113 receptions for 676 yards and two touchdowns. He was named to the Pro Bowl in 2004.
Remembering The Man
Johnson was beloved by Bengals fans and teammates alike during his time with the team. X (Twitter) was filled with tributes and memories today for the former star. Here are a few of those posts.
Bengals fan Joe Koesters posted:
NatiBuck513 added this tribute.
Former Bengal star wide receiver and teammate Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson posted simply…
The bruising back was a star that burned bright, but burned out far too soon. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on through the Rudi Johnson Foundation. The charity has helped local Cincinnati schools, supported the National Bone Marrow Registry, and provided support for local families and children.
