Rudi Johnson, born as Burudi Ali Johnson, had played for the Cincinnati Bengals as a running back in the National Football League. During his last season in 2008, he joined the Detroit Lions, but Rudi had immortalised himself as the ‘Auburn Rambler’ of the Bengals. Hence, the former NFL star’s death at the age of 45 has sent shockwaves through the sports community.
As per reports, the cause of death has been stated as suicide. Rudi was also said to be struggling with mental health issues. Amid these shocking revelations and outpouring of condolences, here’s a look at Rudi Johnson’s family life, if he had a wife and who he is survived by.
Did Rudi Johnson have a wife?
Several reports stated that Rudi Johnson was unmarried at the time of his passing. There had been no mention of any children either. However, after Rudi Johnson’s passing, his high school football team shared a message on their Facebook page, calling him a great father and husband. Rudi Johnson was very private about his personal life and wanted to be known by his game play on the field. Hence, the football team’s alumni page, revealing this unknown detail about his marriage and fatherhood, has shocked everyone. However, the identity of his wife and children is still not public. Their FB post, written by the admin, read:
I’ve spoken with the family and they wanted to express thanks for all the prayers and support during these difficult times and please respect their privacy. They have asked me to express that Rudi was a strong family man who loved all that he met, especially his family. He was a great son, a great husband, a great father and brother. At this time, let’s just all come together in prayer and show our support to the Johnson family.
Rudi Johnson’s family life and strong bond with the community
Rudi Johnson was known for having strong ties to his family and community. Although exact information on his family life is limited, the Johnsons were a closely knit family. Reportedly, his middle name ‘Ali’ was chosen by his parents as a tribute to the legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali. Rudi was also heavily involved in uplifting the community. He established the Rudi Johnson Foundation in 2005, which strives to mobilise families and children to be self-reliant through many schemes. However, the foundation isn’t restricted to this. From funding football teams to helping people find bone marrow donors, Rudi Johnson’s foundation has helped thousands of people.
As per an Economic Times report, after Rudi Johnson’s tragic demise, reportedly by suicide, his family revealed that before his death, the former NFL star had put all of his efforts into helping others. They stated that both on and off the field, what mattered to him the most was serving others.
Rudi Johnson’s net worth
Rudi Johnson’s net worth has been reported to be $5 million, according to a Business Upturn report. This amount has been suggested by calculating his earnings during his NFL career, business ventures after retirement, and investments. However, despite being a millionaire, Rudi had led a simple life and instead used his influence to help others.
More about Rudi Johnson’s death
Rudi Johnson passed away on September 23, 2025 at the age of 45. Police stated suicide as the cause of death to TMZ. As per reports, the former NFL player’s family revealed that he had been suffering from mental health issues. Information is also floating around that Rudi was suffering the aftereffects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). However, there is no official confirmation of this alleged diagnosis yet. For the unversed, CTE refers to increasing cognitive issues as a result of frequent head injury. This disease can only be diagnosed after death.
Condolences to the loved ones of Rudi Johnson. May he rest in peace.
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