Former NFL All-Pro Tre' Johnson Dies at 54 on Family Trip

Johnson played for the Washington franchise from 1994-2000 and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1999.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Former NFL offensive lineman Tre' Johnson, an All-Pro with Washington in 1999, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday during a family trip, according to his wife. Johnson was 54 years old.

Why it matters

Johnson was a respected player during his NFL career, making the Pro Bowl in 1999 and being named an All-Pro. His death at a relatively young age is tragic, and it highlights the challenges that some former NFL players face with their health after retiring from the game.

The details

Johnson played for the Washington franchise from 1994-2000 and in his final season in 2002 after one year with the Cleveland Browns. He started 72 of the 93 regular-season games he played and both playoff contests, nearly all at guard. After his NFL career, Johnson became a high school history teacher and coach at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.

  • Johnson died on Sunday, February 16, 2026 during a family trip.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former NFL offensive lineman who played for the Washington franchise from 1994-2000 and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1999.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who posted about his sudden and unexpected death on social media.

Washington Commanders

The NFL team that Tre' Johnson played for from 1994-2000, who posted about his passing on their X account.

Landon School

The high school in Bethesda, Maryland where Tre' Johnson worked as a history teacher and coach after his NFL career.

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What they’re saying

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre' Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday ... during a brief family trip. His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock.”

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

“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)

The takeaway

Tre' Johnson's sudden passing at the age of 54 is a tragic loss for his family, friends, and the NFL community. His career accomplishments, including making the Pro Bowl in 1999, demonstrate the impact he had as a player, and his post-football work as a teacher and coach shows his commitment to mentoring young people. This story serves as a reminder of the challenges that former NFL players can face with their health and the importance of supporting them after their playing days are over.