CINCINNATI -- Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45, the team confirmed on Tuesday.

Johnson's death was first reported by TMZ. A cause of death and exact date was unknown.

In a statement, the Bengals mourned Johnson's death.

"Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us," said Bengals president Mike Brown. "He was dependable and productive as a player, and very popular among his teammates. Everyone liked him and saw him as a dear friend. We are deeply saddened by his passing."

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rudi Johnson. pic.twitter.com/wXTd8jgEBl — Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) September 23, 2025

The Bengals drafted Johnson in the fourth round of the 2001 draft. The Auburn product played the next seasons with Cinci

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