Rudi Johnson

Auburn Rambler

Burudi Ali "Rudi" Johnson (October 1, 1979 – September 23, 2025) was an American professional football player who was a running back for eight seasons in the National Football League (NFL), primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals. He played college football for the Auburn Tigers and was selected by the Bengals in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL draft.

Quick Facts

Position: Running back
Born: 1 October 1979
Birthplace: Ettrick, Virginia, U.S.
Died: 23 September 2025
Place of death: Miami-Dade County, Florida, U.S.
High school: Thomas Dale (Chester, Virginia)
College: Butler CC (1998–1999), Auburn (2000)
Draft year: 2001

Lore & Background

Johnson was selected to the Pro Bowl with the Bengals in 2004 after leading the team in rushing. He employed a bruising style of hard-nosed running that earned him the nickname the 'Auburn Rambler.' He set a franchise rushing record with 1,454 yards in 2004 and broke his own record with 1,458 yards in 2005. He was named SEC Player of the Year in college and was inducted into the NJCAA Hall of Fame.

Reader's Guide

Johnson was born in Ettrick, Virginia. He played at Butler Community College, helping lead the team to two national championships, and later at Auburn University. He was drafted by the Bengals in 2001, became the starter in 2004, and played for the Detroit Lions in 2008. He established the Rudi Johnson Foundation in July 2005.

Did You Know?

Johnson's most memorable college performance came against Dixie College in the 1999 NJCAA championship game, where he ran for 375 yards and seven touchdowns.
In a Week 10 victory over the Houston Texans in 2003, Johnson had a career-high 43 carries for 182 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Johnson accused Detroit Lions teammate Tatum Bell of stealing his luggage in 2008, though Bell insisted it was an honest mistake.