Former NFL Lineman Tre' Johnson Dies at 54

Johnson transitioned to a career as a high school history teacher after his football days.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tre' Johnson, a former standout offensive lineman for the Washington NFL team who later became a high school history teacher, has died at the age of 54. Johnson's wife Irene announced his sudden and unexpected passing during a family trip.

Why it matters

Johnson's story highlights the challenges former professional athletes can face transitioning to new careers after their playing days are over. As a high school teacher, he was able to positively impact young people's lives after his successful NFL career.

The details

Johnson was drafted 31st overall by Washington in 1994 after starring at Temple University. He played for Washington through 2000, spent 2001 with the Cleveland Browns, and returned to Washington for a final year in 2002. The 6-foot-2, 328-pound guard was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1999. After retiring from the NFL, Johnson became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. His wife said recent health issues had forced him to take a leave of absence from teaching.

  • Tre' Johnson died on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former standout offensive lineman who played in the NFL for the Washington and Cleveland teams, and later transitioned to become a high school history teacher.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who announced his sudden and unexpected passing on Facebook.

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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 ... 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)

The takeaway

Tre' Johnson's life and career exemplified the ability to transition from professional sports to public service as a teacher, positively impacting young people's lives. His sudden passing at 54 is a tragic loss for his family, students, and community.