Tre’ Johnson has died at the age of 54, as confirmed by his wife in a Facebook post shared yesterday (February 15).
Johnson was widely recognized for his time playing with the Washington Commanders, previously known as the Washington Redskins, where he spent eight seasons from 1994 to 2001.
He held the position of offensive guard and had a short period with the Cleveland Browns before making a return to Washington in 2002.
Following his NFL career, Johnson transitioned into a role as a history teacher in the Washington DC area.
Students and fans alike are now grieving the unexpected loss of Johnson.
Johnson’s wife, Irene, shared the news on social media, stating: “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.”
She continued by reflecting on his dedication as a father: “If you know Tre’ you know what a devoted and loving father, he was to his children. Tre’ lived for his kid’s sports activities and supported them through every practice and game until he took his last breath. He shared his passion for Frenchie’s and riding his motorcycle with me and his fellow biking buddies.”
Irene also highlighted Johnson’s NFL achievements and his deep connection to the game, mentioning that he ‘loved the game and prided himself on his tremendous knowledge of it’.
Discussing his work in education, Irene noted: “After retirement, he also found his second career passion, education. He worked as a History Teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda Maryland, where he was beloved by the young male students he mentored and the faculty. His recent battles with health issues forced him to take a leave of absence.”
She concluded her message with, “We will miss him so much.”
Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where Johnson was an alum, also offered condolences and acknowledged him as ‘one of the finest offensive linemen in the history of Temple football’.
In 2004, Johnson was inducted into the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame.
The Washington Commanders have also expressed their sorrow over Johnson’s passing. The team shared on Twitter: “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.”
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].