NFL Pro Bowler Tre' Johnson Dies Suddenly at 54

The former Washington Redskins guard was a 1999 Pro Bowl selection.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Tre' Johnson, a veteran of nine NFL seasons who was selected to the 1999 Pro Bowl with the Washington Redskins, died suddenly on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the age of 54. Johnson's wife Irene announced his unexpected passing on Facebook, stating that his four children, extended family, and friends are "devastated and in shock."

Why it matters

Johnson was a respected player during his NFL career, making the Pro Bowl in 1999 and earning second-team All-Pro honors that same season. His sudden death at a relatively young age has shocked the football community, with his former teams and alma mater Temple University expressing their condolences.

The details

Born Edward Stanton Johnson III in New York City, Johnson played collegiately at Temple University from 1989-1993, earning three-time All-Big East selections and third-team All-American honors as a senior. He was drafted 31st overall by the Washington Redskins in the 1994 NFL Draft and played for the team through 2000, highlighted by his Pro Bowl appearance in 1999. After a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns in 2001, Johnson returned to Washington for his final NFL season in 2002 before retiring. Following his playing career, Johnson worked as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.

  • Tre' Johnson died suddenly on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
  • Johnson was selected to the 1999 Pro Bowl.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A veteran lineman of nine NFL seasons who was selected to the 1999 Pro Bowl with the Washington Redskins.

Irene Johnson

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

Washington Redskins

The NFL team Johnson played for from 1994 to 2000, where he made the Pro Bowl in 1999.

Temple University

The college where Johnson played football from 1989 to 1993, earning three-time All-Big East selections and third-team All-American honors as a senior.

Landon School

The school in Bethesda, Maryland where Johnson worked as a history teacher after retiring from the NFL.

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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 (Washington Commanders)

“Temple University is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former Owl football star Tre Johnson.”

— Temple University (Temple University)

“If you know Tre' you know what a devoted and loving father, he was to his children. Tre' lived for his kid's sports activities and supported them through every practice and game until he took his last breath. He shared his passion for Frenchie's and riding his motorcycle with me and his fellow biking buddies.”

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

The takeaway

The sudden passing of Tre' Johnson, a respected NFL Pro Bowler and dedicated family man, has left the football community and his loved ones in shock. This tragic loss serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with those close to us.