Former Washington Commanders All-Pro Tre' Johnson Dies at 54

The football player passed away suddenly and unexpectedly during a family trip, his wife said.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former NFL offensive guard Tre' Johnson, who played eight seasons for the Washington Commanders and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999, has died at the age of 54. His wife Irene said he passed away "suddenly and unexpectedly" on Sunday during a family trip. Johnson was a second-round draft pick in 1994 and played one additional season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001 before retiring.

Why it matters

Tre' Johnson was a standout player for the Washington Commanders during his NFL career, making the Pro Bowl in 1999. His sudden passing at a relatively young age of 54 is a tragic loss for the football community and his family.

The details

After retiring from the NFL, Johnson worked as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, where he was beloved by his students and colleagues. His wife Irene said he had been battling recent health issues that had forced him to take a leave of absence from his teaching job.

  • Johnson died suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former NFL offensive guard who played eight seasons for the Washington Commanders, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1999. He also played one season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001 before retiring.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who announced his sudden and unexpected passing on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're heartbroken to learn of the loss of former Washington All-Pro guard Tre' Johnson. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”

— Washington Commanders (X)

“Tre' died suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday during a family trip. We will miss him so much.”

— Irene Johnson, Tre' Johnson's wife (Facebook)

The takeaway

The sudden passing of Tre' Johnson, a beloved former NFL player and teacher, is a tragic loss for his family, the Washington Commanders organization, and the broader football community. His legacy as a standout player and dedicated educator will be remembered.