Ex-Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson dies of suicide at 45

1 of 6 | Former NFL running back Rudi Johnson (L) spent seven of his eight seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo

MIAMI, Sept. 23 (UPI) -- Former Cincinnati Bengals star Rudi Johnson died of suicide at his Miami-area residence, a source familiar with the incident told UPI on Tuesday. He was 45.

Sunny Isles Police Department Lt. Melissa M. Porro said officers responded to a call Monday at Johnson's Sunny Isles Beach, Fla., home. The department turned over the investigation into his death to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our friend and client Rudi Johnson," said Johnson's former agent, Peter Schaffer. "Rudi lived his life in the service of others. He was a man who disdained self-promotion and avoided the spotlight of social media, yet his presence was always felt through his positivity, energy, and generosity.

"It has been one of the greatest honors of my career and my life to call him both a client and a friend. His legacy will not be measured by statistics or accolades, but by the countless lives he touched and the love he gave so freely."

Schaffer also said his former client's death was a "call to action" for more research into chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a neurodegenerative disease that only can be diagnosed after death through an autopsy of the brain.

"These tragic circumstances must also serve as a call to action," Schaffer said. "The NFL and the scientific community must do more -- more research into CTE, more innovation into how we can treat it, prevent it and provide support to those living with it. Players past, present and future deserve nothing less.

"May Rudi rest in peace, knowing that his impact on this world was profound and that his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him."

Johnson, who starred at Auburn in 2000, was a fourth-round pick by the Bengals in the 2001 NFL Draft. He spent seven of his eight NFL seasons with the AFC North franchise.

Johnson eclipsed 1,300 yards and scored 12 touchdowns for three consecutive years from 2004 through 2006. He earned Pro Bowl honors for his 2004 campaign.

Johnson spent his final season with the Detroit Lions. The eight-year veteran totaled 5,979 rushing yards and 49 scores on 1,517 career carries. He also logged 113 catches for 676 yards and two scores. His 5,742 rushing yards while with the Bengals rank fourth in franchise history, behind only Corey Dillon, James Brooks and Joe Mixon.

His 48 rushing scores for the Bengals trail only Pete Johnson and Mixon, who ran for 64 and 49, respectively.

"Rudi was a fine person and an excellent running back for us," Bengals owner Mike Brown said in a statement. "He was dependable and productive as a player and very popular among his teammates. Everyone liked him and saw him as a dear friend. We are deeply saddened by his passing."

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, confidential, free help is available from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.