Former Pro Bowl NFL lineman Tre' Johnson dies at 54

Tre’ Johnson, the former Pro Bowl offensive lineman who anchored Washington’s offensive line through the late 1990s and later devoted himself to teaching history at a Maryland prep school, died Sunday while traveling with his family, his wife announced. He was 54.

Irene Johnson revealed the news in a Facebook post, writing that her husband “passed away suddenly and unexpectedly … during a brief family trip.” The couple’s four children—Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden—were with him, along with other relatives. “We are devastated and in shock,” she said.

A first-round selection out of Temple, Johnson was taken 31st overall by Washington in the 1994 NFL Draft. Over eight seasons with the franchise, he started 72 of 93 career games and earned Pro Bowl honors in 1999. After a one-year stint with the Cleveland Browns in 2001, Johnson returned to Washington for his final NFL season in 2002, starting three of the 10 games he appeared in before retiring.

Following his playing career, Johnson transitioned to education, becoming a history teacher at Landon School, a private campus in Bethesda, Maryland. According to his wife, he had recently taken a leave of absence because of ongoing health issues.

The Washington Commanders acknowledged Johnson’s passing on their official X account: “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.”

Johnson is survived by his wife, their four children, and a wide circle of extended family and friends.