Former NFL player, Kevin Johnson, who had played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders, has passed away this week. Here's what we know about the cause of his death.
The sudden death of former NFL defensive lineman, Kevin Johnson has shocked the football community. The 55-year-old, who was once known for his impressive on-field presence, met a tragic, violent end in Los Angeles. After stepping away from the game, Kevin maintained a low-key life. But, needless to say, the new development has left his former teammates, fans and loved ones searching for answers. Amid the devastating news, here's what we know about the cause of his demise.
According to the information first reported by TMZ, Kevin Johnson, 55, was found dead near a homeless encampment in Los Angeles on January 20, 2025. After initial investigation and medical examination, the LA County Medical Examiner later confirmed that he passed away after suffering a blunt head trauma and stab wounds. Subsequently, the authorities have officially ruled the case as a homicide. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has launched a full-scale investigation to find out the circumstances surrounding Kevin's death.
Until now, they have not released the name of any suspect. At the same time, they do not have conclusive evidence to show how the Ex-Eagles player sustained the injuries or whether he was specifically targeted. At the same time, the law enforcement officials indicated that Kevin appeared to be living in or around the encampment where his body was discovered. It has added another layer of shock to the story of a man who once competed at the highest level of professional football.
After the news of Kevin Johnson's death became public, his family members, fellow teammates and childhood friends expressed their grief on social media. There is no specific news about his marital status. Yet, among others, Kevin's son also paid a tribute to him. He remembered Kevin not just as an athlete, but as a father and a loved one. Alongside, many people close to him revealed that he was struggling with addiction in his later years. One longtime friend wrote that she had been praying for him "from a distance," highlighting that life after football had been difficult for the former player. Apart from these wishes, the exact details of his family remain private.
Kevin Johnson was born and brought up in Southern California. He began his football journey at Los Angeles Harbour College before transferring to Texas Southern University. His hard work and talent earned him a spot in the 1993 NFL Draft, where he was selected in the fourth round by the New England Patriots. However, he was released before appearing in a regular-season game. Later, Kevin made his NFL debut with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1995. He gave a stellar performance, recording 6 sacks and 19 tackles in just 11 games.
He played for one more season before he was released in late 1996. Later, in 1997, Kevin signed up with the Oakland Raiders and played 15 games. He later transitioned to the Arena Football League, where he found success with the Orlando Predators, and they won an ArenaBowl championship in 1998. But the unexpected, tragic death of the prominent NFL player has left the football world in shock.
Rest in peace, Kevin Johnson.
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