Former NFL Lineman Kevin Johnson Dies at 55; LAPD Investigating as Homicide
Kevin Johnson, a former NFL defensive tackle who once suited up for the Raiders and Eagles, has died at the age of 55. His body was discovered on January 22nd at a homeless encampment in Los Angeles, and authorities are now investigating his death as a possible homicide.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Johnson suffered both blunt head trauma and stab wounds. The LAPD has confirmed that the investigation remains open and ongoing.
Johnson’s story is one that began in Los Angeles, where he was born and raised. He played his early college ball at Los Angeles Harbor College before transferring to Texas Southern University. His performance at Texas Southern caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 1993, the New England Patriots selected him in the fourth round of the NFL Draft.
But Johnson’s path through the league was far from smooth. After being released by the Patriots just months after the draft, he bounced around the league - first landing on the practice squads of the Minnesota Vikings and the Raiders. It wasn’t until 1995 that he found a home with the Philadelphia Eagles, who claimed him off waivers.
He spent two seasons in Philadelphia before returning to the Raiders for the 1997 season. That year, he played in 15 games and recorded 11 tackles - a solid contribution for a rotational defensive lineman trying to carve out a role in a crowded front seven. It would be his final season in the NFL.
Johnson didn’t hang up his cleats right away, though. He transitioned to the Arena Football League, where he found new life in the game.
In 1998, he helped the Orlando Predators capture an ArenaBowl title. He later returned to his hometown once again, suiting up for the Los Angeles Avengers from 2000 to 2001.
The tragic circumstances of Johnson’s death have cast a spotlight on the difficult post-football journeys some players face. While the league has made strides in supporting former players, stories like Johnson’s are a stark reminder that the transition out of professional sports doesn’t always come with a safety net.
“He was probably living [at the encampment],” said Los Angeles County Sheriff's Lt. Steve De Jong, acknowledging the challenges Johnson appeared to be facing at the time of his death.
From a promising college standout to a pro who fought for every snap he got, Johnson’s football career was marked by perseverance. His time in the league may have been brief, but it was hard-earned. And while the end of his life was marked by tragedy, his journey through football - and the lives he touched along the way - won’t be forgotten.
The investigation into Johnson’s death continues.