The Cincinnati Bengals mourn the passing of former halfback Rudi Johnson, a Pro Bowler who played for the team from 2001-07 and is among the top rushers in franchise history.
"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."
Johnson, a fourth-round draft pick out of Auburn in 2001, stands fourth on the Bengals' all-time rushing list with 5742 yards and holds the team's record for most rushing yards in a season with 1458 in 2005. He also holds the No. 2 spot on the single-season rushing list with 1454 yards in his 2004 Pro Bowl season, and he ranks third in team history with 48 career rushing touchdowns.
