Former National Football League standout Tre’ Johnson, a Pro Bowl offensive guard best known for his time with the Washington football franchise, has died suddenly at the age of 54. His wife announced the unexpected passing on Sunday, noting that he died while on a short family trip.
Johnson’s death was confirmed in a heartfelt social media post by his wife, Irene Johnson, who wrote that he passed away “suddenly and unexpectedly” during a brief getaway with his family. She said she, their four children — Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden — and extended family are “devastated and in shock” by the loss.
A Career on the Gridiron and Beyond
A native of Manhattan, New York, Johnson was a standout at Temple University before being selected 31st overall in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft by Washington. He went on to enjoy a nine-season professional career, spending the bulk of his time anchoring the offensive line for the Washington franchise in the late 1990s. Johnson earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999 and was known for his strength, durability, and leadership on the field.
After a single season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001, he returned to Washington for his final NFL campaign in 2002. Over the course of his career, he appeared in 93 regular-season games with 72 starts.
Life After Football
Following his retirement from professional football, Johnson transitioned into education, finding a second calling as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. He was widely respected by students and colleagues alike for his mentorship and passion for teaching.
In recent years, his wife said he had faced health challenges that forced him to take a leave of absence from teaching. The exact cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Community and Team Reactions
The Washington football community has reacted with deep sadness to the news, with the Washington Commanders organization expressing heartfelt condolences to Johnson’s family and loved ones. Former teammates and fans also remembered him as a fierce competitor on the field and a devoted father and mentor off it.
Johnson’s unexpected passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the NFL and education communities, reflecting the impact he made both as a professional athlete and as a teacher.
