Former Washington Commanders Guard Tre' Johnson Dies at 54

Johnson played eight seasons for the team and was a Pro Bowl selection in 1999.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former NFL offensive guard Tre' Johnson has died at the age of 54, the Washington Commanders announced on Sunday. Johnson played for the Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, from 1994 to 2001 and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999. After his NFL career, he became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, where he was beloved by his students.

Why it matters

The passing of a former player often resonates deeply within a team's history and among its fanbase, highlighting the lasting impact athletes can have beyond their playing careers. Johnson's transition to a teaching role further demonstrates a commitment to mentorship and community engagement.

The details

Johnson was a second-round draft pick in 1994, the first year Norv Turner was head coach of the Washington Redskins. He played eight seasons from 1994 to 2001 as an offensive guard for the Washington Commanders. Johnson played another season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001. Before his death, Tre' worked as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, 'where he was beloved by the young male students he mentored and the faculty.'

  • Tre' Johnson played for the Washington Commanders from 1994 to 2001.
  • Johnson earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999.
  • Johnson played one more season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former NFL offensive guard who played eight seasons for the Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who said he died 'suddenly and unexpectedly' during a family trip and that he was beloved by his students and faculty at the Landon School where he worked as a history teacher.

Norv Turner

The head coach of the Washington Redskins in 1994, the year Tre' Johnson was drafted by the team.

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)

“Before his death, Tre' worked as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, 'where he was beloved by the young male students he mentored and the faculty.'”

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

The takeaway

The passing of former NFL player Tre' Johnson highlights the lasting impact athletes can have on their local communities, both through their playing careers and in their post-football lives as mentors and educators.