WASHINGTON — Tre’ Johnson, a former NFL standout offensive lineman with the Washington franchise who later became a Maryland high school history teacher, died Sunday. He was 54.
Irene Johnson, his wife, announced his death in a Facebook post, stating he passed away unexpectedly during a brief family trip. “It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre’ Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly … During a brief family trip,” she wrote. “His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock.”
Johnson starred at Temple University before being drafted by Washington as the 31st overall pick in the 1994 NFL Draft. He played eight of his nine NFL seasons with the Washington franchise, departing for a single season with the Cleveland Browns in 2001 before returning to Washington for his final year in 2002. The 6-foot-2, 328-pound offensive guard was named to the Pro Bowl in 1999 and was a second-team Associated Press All-Pro that same year, helping Washington win the NFC East.
The Washington Commanders released a statement on social media expressing their heartbreak at the news of Johnson’s passing, offering their thoughts to his family and loved ones.
Following his NFL career, Johnson transitioned to education, becoming a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland. According to his wife, recent health issues had necessitated a leave of absence from his teaching position.
Irene Johnson shared that her husband was a devoted father to their four children – Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden – prioritizing their sports activities and supporting them through every practice and game. She also noted his passion for motorcycles and riding with his friends.
Born August 30, 1971, in Manhattan, New York, Edward Stanton Johnson III played in 93 games during his NFL career, starting 72 of them. He recovered four fumbles throughout his time in the league.
