PETERSBURG, VA — Burudi Ali Johnson, American Football Has Passed Away
PETERSBURG, VA — Burudi Ali Johnson, former NFL running back, passed away on September 23, 2025, at the age of 45. The news of his sudden death has sent shockwaves through the sports community and beyond. Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing, with early reports suggesting suicide.
Born on October 1, 1979, in Ettrick, Virginia, Johnson began his football journey at the age of six with the Ettrick Trojans. His passion for the sport was evident from an early age, and he quickly rose to prominence in local youth leagues, showing a natural talent for running the football.
Johnson attended Thomas Dale High School, where he became a standout athlete on both offense and defense. He set a school rushing record that had previously stood for decades, earning recognition and admiration from coaches, peers, and fans alike. His high school career laid the foundation for his future in collegiate and professional football.
Johnson’s collegiate career began at Butler Community College in Kansas, where he led the team to two national championships. His remarkable performance in the 1999 championship game, rushing for 375 yards and scoring seven touchdowns, earned him the NJCAA Player of the Year award. He later transferred to Auburn University, where he rushed for 1,567 yards in the 2000 season and was named SEC Player of the Year.
In the 2001 NFL Draft, Johnson was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round. He quickly became a key player for the team, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2004 after leading the Bengals in rushing. Johnson’s powerful running style and relentless determination on the field earned him the nickname “Auburn Rambler,” and he remains the Bengals’ single-season rushing leader with 1,458 yards in 2005.
Over his eight-season NFL career, Johnson amassed 5,979 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns, also contributing 676 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns. He concluded his professional playing career with the Detroit Lions in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of consistency, hard work, and memorable performances.
Off the field, Johnson was deeply committed to giving back to the community. In 2005, he established the Rudi Johnson Foundation, focusing on helping families and children achieve self-sufficiency. The foundation also supported national bone marrow registries and organized donor drives to recruit minorities, reflecting Johnson’s commitment to improving lives beyond the football field.
In recognition of his contributions, Johnson was inducted into the Chesterfield County Sports Hall of Fame in September 2025. Although he could not attend the ceremony, his mother accepted the honor on his behalf, celebrating his accomplishments and community impact.
Johnson’s passing has left a profound impact on the sports community. The Cincinnati Bengals expressed deep sorrow, describing him as a “fine person and an excellent running back” who was “dependable and productive” and “very popular among his teammates.” Fans, teammates, and colleagues alike continue to mourn his sudden loss.
As investigations into his death continue, Johnson’s legacy endures through his athletic achievements and dedication to the community. He is remembered not only for his prowess on the field but also for his efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of others, leaving behind an enduring influence that will not be forgotten.