The NFL community is mourning the sudden passing of former All-Pro offensive guard Tre’ Johnson. He died at the age of 54. The Washington Commanders confirmed the news following an announcement from his wife, Irene. Furthermore, she stated that the former lineman passed away unexpectedly during a family trip.
Johnson served as a cornerstone of the Washington offensive line for nearly a decade. He was a second-round selection in the 1994 NFL Draft out of Temple University. Moreover, he was widely known for his immense physical strength and technical reliability. His career reached its zenith in 1999. During that season, he earned Pro Bowl honors and a Second-Team All-Pro selection.
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. pic.twitter.com/6Iak2dhYwk
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) February 16, 2026
Across nine professional seasons, Johnson appeared in 93 regular-season games and made 72 starts. Although he spent most of his career in the nation’s capital, he also played for the Cleveland Browns in 2001. Shortly after, he returned to Washington to conclude his playing days in 2002.
In response to the news, his former team expressed deep sorrow in a public statement. They noted they were “heartbroken” to lose a member of the franchise family. Similarly, friends and teammates remembered him as a “durability specialist.” He prided himself on the mental aspects of the game just as much as the physical ones.
From the Stadium to the Classroom
Johnson’s impact extended far beyond the professional stadiums of Washington D.C. and Cleveland. Consequently, he transitioned into a second career in education after his retirement. He eventually became a fixture in the Bethesda, Maryland community.
Specifically, Johnson served as a history teacher and mentor at the Landon School. Faculty and students described him as a beloved figure. He often used the discipline of the locker room to inspire excellence in the classroom. However, Johnson had recently taken a leave of absence to navigate undisclosed health challenges.
A Community in Shock
The news of Johnson’s passing has triggered a wave of tributes from the D.C. metro area. Many fans took to social media to recall his role in the 1999 NFC East title run. To many, he was a “silent giant” who protected quarterbacks with unmatched ferocity.
For the students at Landon, the loss is deeply personal. Many credited Johnson for his mentorship of young men. On various digital platforms, former students shared stories of his passion. They remembered a teacher who loved history just as much as a perfect pass-protection set.
His wife, Irene, and their four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden, survive Johnson. His family remembers him as a devoted father. He was a constant presence at his children’s sporting events. Indeed, he supported them with the same intensity he once brought to the NFL trenches.
