Former Washington O-Lineman Tre' Johnson Dies at 54

Johnson, a Pro Bowl selection in 1999, went on to become a Maryland high school history teacher after his NFL career.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tre' Johnson, the former standout Washington offensive lineman who played in the NFL from 1994 to 2002, including a Pro Bowl selection in 1999, has died at the age of 54. After his football career, Johnson became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, but had to take a leave of absence due to recent health issues.

Why it matters

Johnson's death at a relatively young age is tragic, and his transition from a successful NFL career to becoming a high school teacher highlights the diverse paths former professional athletes can take. His passing will be felt by the Washington football community as well as the students and faculty at the Landon School where he taught.

The details

Tre' Johnson was drafted by Washington with the 31st overall pick in 1994 and played for the team through 2000. He then spent the 2001 season with the Cleveland Browns before returning to Washington for one 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, but had to take a leave of absence due to recent health issues.

  • Tre' Johnson was drafted by Washington in 1994.
  • Johnson played for Washington from 1994 to 2000.
  • Johnson spent the 2001 season with the Cleveland Browns.
  • Johnson returned to Washington for one final year in 2002.
  • Johnson was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1999.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former standout offensive lineman who played in the NFL from 1994 to 2002, including a Pro Bowl selection in 1999. After his football career, he became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who announced his sudden and unexpected passing in a Facebook post.

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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 passing at the age of 54 is a tragic loss for his family, the Washington football community, and the students and faculty at the Landon School where he taught history. His career path from standout NFL player to dedicated high school teacher highlights the diverse ways former professional athletes can contribute to their communities after their playing days are over.