Ex-NFL lineman Kevin Johnson stabbed to death in LA: What homicide investigation reveals

Former NFL defensive lineman Kevin Johnson, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders during the 1990s, has been stabbed to death in Los Angeles, authorities confirmed. Johnson was 55 years old, and his death is now being treated as a homicide, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Johnson’s body was discovered on Wednesday at a homeless encampment, a detail that has added another layer of tragedy to the death of the former professional athlete.

Authorities Confirm Homicide Investigation

Medical examiner records list blunt head trauma and stab wounds as the cause of death. Law enforcement officials have launched a full homicide investigation, though no suspects or arrests have been announced as of publication.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department acknowledged the case remains active, and investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding Johnson’s death.

A sheriff’s lieutenant told Newsweek that Johnson appeared to be living at the encampment where his body was found, suggesting he may have been homeless at the time of his death.

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Kevin Johnson’s NFL Career and Early Promise

Kevin Johnson was a standout football player at Texas Southern University, where his defensive talent earned him national attention. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, though he never appeared in a regular-season game for the franchise.

His NFL career officially began in 1995 with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played two seasons. Over 23 games, Johnson recorded 43 tackles, seven sacks, and returned a fumble for a touchdown, establishing himself as a physical and reliable defensive presence.

In 1997, Johnson joined the Oakland Raiders, appearing in 15 games and tallying 11 tackles.

Arena Football Success After the NFL

After his NFL career ended, Johnson transitioned to Arena Football, where he found renewed success. Playing for the Orlando Predators, he contributed on both offense and defense and helped the team win the ArenaBowl championship in 1998.

He later played for the Los Angeles Avengers, extending his professional football career and remaining connected to the sport well into the early 2000s.

Friends and Family Mourn Former NFL Player

Following news of his death, friends and family members shared tributes on social media, remembering Johnson not just as an athlete, but as a person whose life took an unexpected and heartbreaking turn.

His death has sparked renewed conversations about the post-career struggles faced by former professional athletes, particularly those dealing with financial hardship, housing instability, and mental health challenges.

Community and League Reaction

Johnson’s passing adds to a growing list of former professional athletes whose deaths have occurred under tragic circumstances. While the NFL has not issued an official statement, fans of the Eagles, Raiders, and Arena Football League have expressed shock and sadness at the news.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward.

FAQ

Who was Kevin Johnson?

Kevin Johnson was a former NFL defensive lineman who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders in the 1990s and later won an ArenaBowl championship.

How did Kevin Johnson die?

Kevin Johnson died from blunt head trauma and stab wounds. His death is being investigated as a homicide by Los Angeles authorities.

Where was Kevin Johnson found?

He was found at a homeless encampment in Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Was Kevin Johnson homeless at the time of his death?

Authorities indicated that Johnson appeared to be living at the encampment where his body was discovered.

How old was Kevin Johnson when he died?

Kevin Johnson was 55 years old.

Which NFL teams did Kevin Johnson play for?

He played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders. He was also drafted by the New England Patriots but never played a game for them.

Did Kevin Johnson win any championships?

Yes. He won an ArenaBowl championship in 1998 with the Orlando Predators.

Is Kevin Johnson’s death still under investigation?

Yes. Law enforcement has confirmed the case is an active homicide investigation.