Tre Johnson, a former NFL offensive lineman who brought size, strength, and leadership to every locker room he entered, has passed away at the age of 54. His wife, Irene, shared that Johnson died suddenly and unexpectedly during a brief family trip. While details remain limited, it’s known that he had been dealing with recent health issues.
Johnson’s NFL journey began in 1994 when he was drafted in the second round by Washington. Over the next seven seasons, he became a staple on their offensive line, playing in 90 games and starting 69 of them. His standout year came in 1999, when he earned Pro Bowl honors and was named Second Team All-Pro-a testament to the power and consistency he brought to the right guard position.
In 2001, Johnson signed with the Cleveland Browns during their third season back in the league. At 6-foot-2 and 328 pounds, he was a force on the right side of the line, lining up next to veteran left guard Ross Verba under head coach Butch Davis. That Browns team finished 7-9, a step forward for a young franchise trying to establish its identity.
Unfortunately, Johnson’s time in Cleveland was cut short. Just three games into the season, he suffered a torn quadriceps tendon in his right knee during a Week 3 win over Jacksonville.
The injury required season-ending surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, and Johnson was placed on injured reserve. Rookie guard Jeremy McKinney stepped in for the remainder of the season.
Johnson was later released during final roster cuts the following training camp.
He returned to Washington for one final season in 2002, appearing in 10 games before hanging up his cleats. That marked the end of a nine-year NFL career defined by toughness, professionalism, and a commitment to the grind that only linemen truly understand.
After football, Johnson transitioned into a new chapter as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. It was a role that spoke to his intellect and passion for mentoring young people. He and Irene raised four children-Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden-and built a life rooted in family and community.
In her heartfelt message shared on social media, Irene wrote:
“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.“
Tre Johnson’s legacy stretches far beyond the field. He was a Pro Bowl lineman, a devoted father, a respected educator, and a man who left an impact on every life he touched. His sudden passing is a profound loss to those who knew him and to the football community that watched him battle in the trenches for nearly a decade.