how did rudi johnson pass away

Rudi Johnson, the former NFL running back for the Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions, passed away by suicide at the age of 45 in Florida just after midnight on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. His family and reports indicate he had been struggling with mental health issues and possible symptoms of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to repeated head injuries common among football players. Although there is no public confirmation of a formal CTE diagnosis, Johnson's cognitive and mental health challenges were believed to have played a significant role in his death. His passing has led to calls for more research and support related to CTE and mental health in athletes. Before his death, Johnson focused on helping others through community service and his foundation aimed at supporting children and families.