Former Washington Star Tre' Johnson Dies Suddenly at 54

The Pro Bowl offensive guard was on a family trip when he passed away.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Former NFL Pro Bowl guard Tre' Johnson has died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 54 while on a trip with his family. Johnson, who played for Washington and the Cleveland Browns during his career, died on Sunday, according to his devastated wife Irene. The cause of death has not yet been revealed.

Why it matters

Johnson was a beloved figure in the Washington football community, making the Pro Bowl in 1999 and later becoming a history teacher in Maryland after retiring from the NFL. His sudden passing at a young age has shocked his former teammates, students, and the broader community.

The details

Johnson, an offensive guard, played college football for Temple University before being drafted by Washington in 1994 as a second round pick. He played for Washington through 2000, spent 2001 with Cleveland, and returned to Washington for a final year in 2002. Johnson was known for his 'durability and strength' during his career at Washington. After retiring from football, he taught history at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, but had been forced to take a leave of absence prior to his death.

  • Johnson died on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former NFL Pro Bowl offensive guard who played for the Washington and Cleveland Browns franchises, and later became a history teacher in Maryland.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who announced his sudden and unexpected passing on a family trip.

Washington Commanders

The NFL franchise that Johnson played for, who paid tribute to him after 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. His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock. We will miss him so much.”

— 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 has left his family, former teammates, and the broader Washington community in shock. As a beloved player and respected teacher, Johnson's legacy will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched both on and off the field.