Former NFL Star Passes Away “Unexpectedly”

A former NFL star has died “suddenly and unexpectedly” while on vacation, with his family confirming the news in a heartbreaking statement on social media.

Tre Johnson, who was 54 years old, played for eight seasons in the NFL. The offensive guard represented the former Washington Redskins between 1994 and 2001. Per The People, he then moved to the Cleveland Browns before ending his career back at Washington in 2002.

After retiring from football, Johnson found a new calling, working as a history teacher at a school in Maryland. In a statement on Facebook announcing his passing, Johnson’s wife reflected on his love of mentoring the younger generation.

Tre Johnson’s Wife Pays Tribute After NFL Star’s Tragic Passing

Irene Johnson wrote:

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre’ Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday, February 15, 2026, during a brief family trip.

“If you know Tre’ you know what a devoted and loving father, he was to his children. Tre’ lived for his kid’s sports activities and supported them through every practice and game until he took his last breath. He shared his passion for Frenchie’s and riding his motorcycle with me and his fellow biking buddies.

“Many of you know Tre’ most from his tremendous NFL football career. He was known for his durability and strength during his time in Washington. He loved the game and prided himself on his tremendous knowledge of it.

“After retirement, he also found his second career passion, education. He worked as a History Teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, where he was beloved by the young male students he mentored and the faculty. His recent battles with health issues forced him to take a leave of absence.”

“We will miss him so much,” she concluded.

Washington Commanders Remember Tre Johnson

Johnson appeared in 93 regular season NFL games, starting on 72 occasions, in addition to featuring in two play-off games. He was drafted by the Redskins with the 31st pick in 1994 after his time at Temple University. Johnson enjoyed his best season in the NFL in 1999, earning a Pro Bowl selection.

The Commanders (who changed their name from the Redskins in 2020) also took to social media to pay tribute to their former player. A post on the team’s official Twitter account read:

“We’re heartbroken to learn of the loss of former Washington All-Pro guard Tre’ Johnson. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”

Johnson is survived by his four children: Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden. No announcement has yet been made regarding his cause of death.