Former NFL Star Tre' Johnson Dies Unexpectedly at 54

Johnson, a Washington Redskins offensive guard, passed away during a family trip, leaving his four children in shock.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tre' Johnson, a former NFL offensive guard who played for the Washington Redskins from 1994 to 2001, has died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 54 during a family trip. His wife Irene announced his passing on Facebook, stating that Johnson's four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden, are devastated and in shock. After his NFL career, Johnson worked as a history teacher at a private all-boys school in Bethesda, Maryland.

Why it matters

Johnson was a beloved figure in the Washington football community, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1999 and known for his durability and strength during his time with the Redskins. His unexpected passing at a relatively young age has left his family, former teammates, and the community in mourning.

The details

According to his wife Irene, Johnson died on Sunday, February 15, 2026, during a brief family trip. The cause of death is not yet known. After retiring from the NFL, Johnson found a second career passion in education, working as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. He had recently taken a leave of absence due to health issues.

  • Johnson died on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
  • He played for the Washington Redskins from 1994 to 2001.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former NFL offensive guard who played for the Washington Redskins from 1994 to 2001, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1999. After his NFL career, he worked as a history teacher at a private all-boys school in Bethesda, Maryland.

Irene Johnson

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

Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden

Tre' Johnson's four children, who are devastated and in shock following his death.

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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 February 15, 2026 during a brief family trip.”

— 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 (Washington Commanders spokesperson)

The takeaway

Tre' Johnson's unexpected passing at the age of 54 has left his family, former teammates, and the Washington football community in mourning. As a beloved player and respected educator, Johnson's legacy will continue to inspire those he mentored and impacted throughout his life.