Former Commanders All-Pro Lineman Tre Johnson Dies at 54

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Tre' Johnson, a former All-Pro offensive lineman who played for the Washington Commanders, has died unexpectedly at the age of 54 during a family vacation. Johnson was selected by the Commanders in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft and spent the majority of his 9-year career with the team, earning a Pro Bowl and All-Pro Second Team selection in 1999. The Commanders have extended their condolences to Johnson's family and will aim to support them during this difficult time.

Why it matters

Tre' Johnson was a beloved and respected figure within the Commanders organization, having been a key part of the team's offensive line during his prime years in the late 1990s. His sudden passing at a relatively young age has left the team and the NFL community in shock, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with loved ones.

The details

Johnson was initially viewed as a tackle when the Commanders drafted him in 1994, but the coaching staff eventually decided to move him inside to guard, where he spent the majority of his career. He became a full-time starter in 1995 and remained a key piece of the Commanders' offensive line for the next five seasons, with his best year coming in 1999 when he earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro Second Team honors. Injuries limited Johnson to just seven games over the next two seasons, and he spent his final year in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns in 2001 before returning to Washington for one more season in 2002.

• Johnson was drafted by the Commanders in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft.
• He became a full-time starter for the Commanders in 1995.
• Johnson's best season came in 1999 when he earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro Second Team honors.
• Injuries limited Johnson to just seven games over the 2000 and 2001 seasons.
• Johnson spent the 2001 season with the Cleveland Browns before returning to Washington for one final year in 2002.