Former OL Johnson passes away at 54, remembered by family and NFL community

Tre' Johnson, a former NFL offensive lineman and Pro Bowl selection, has passed away at the age of 54 during a family trip.

Why it matters: Johnson's unexpected death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the football community he once represented. As a player who contributed significantly to the Washington franchise in the late 1990s, his legacy extends beyond the field.

• Johnson was drafted by Washington with the 31st overall pick in the 1994 NFL Draft and played for the team until 2000, returning for a final season in 2002.
• His performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl in 1999, solidifying his status as one of the team's key players during that era.

What’s new: Johnson's passing was confirmed by his wife, Irene, who expressed her family's shock and devastation.

• In a heartfelt statement, she noted, "It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre' Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly ... during a brief family trip."

Between the lines: The loss of Johnson resonates deeply within the NFL community and among those who knew him personally.

• Beyond his football career, Johnson transitioned into education, becoming a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.
• He had recently taken a leave of absence due to health issues, highlighting the challenges he faced outside of his athletic endeavors.

The bottom line: Tre' Johnson is survived by his wife and four children—Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden—who will undoubtedly carry on his memory and legacy.

• Johnson's contributions to the game and his role as a father and educator reflect a life dedicated not only to sports but also to nurturing future generations.

As tributes pour in from fans and former teammates alike, Johnson's impact will be remembered both on and off the field.