Former NFL player Rudi Johnson has died at the age of 45, but shared an inspiring message of hope just days prior.
In a statement, his former team Cincinnati Bengals described him as 'very popular' and 'an excellent running back'.
"Everyone liked him and saw him as a dear friend. We are deeply saddened by his passing," the statement continued.
TMZ were first to report Johnson's death, while the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) in Florida confirmed his passing to CNN.
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The circumstances of Johnson's death weren't disclosed, but MDSO detective Joseph R. Peguero Rivera told CNN following a preliminary investigation that 'all indications are leading to (death by) suicide'.
No foul play is suspected and the investigation is still ongoing.
Johnson played for the Bengals between 2001 and 2007, and briefly for the Detroit Lions in 2008.
He became famous for his power running style and ability to consistently gain tough yards.
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He was a Pro Bowl selection in 2004, after rushing for 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns.
At his peak, Johnson was one of the NFL’s most productive running backs, posting three straight 1,300+ yard rushing seasons between 2004 and 2006.
He began playing football at just six years old, with the Ettrick Trojans of the Chesterfield Quarterback League in Chesterfield County, Virginia.
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And in the days before his death, Johnson had been inducted into the Chesterfield Hall of Fame.
He shared a pre-recorded video to accept the induction, where he expressed gratitude and reflected on his early years with the Trojans.
He thanked his head coach, adding: "He told me to keep my head on straight, stay focused, and that one day he would see me on Monday Night Football. Those words of encouragement stayed with me."
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He continued: "When it was all said and done, my teammates and I were able to win the first ever Super Bowl trophy back for my beloved team. That meant a great deal to me, to my family, my friends, and everyone."
He then moved on to his time at Thomasville High and his 'very special mentor' Henry Jefferson.
"In the course of the journey, from Erick to Thomasdale, it was all worth it. And all of the friendships that were built along the way meant so much."
He then shared an inspiring - and in hindsight, heartbreaking - sentiment.
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"I also want to give a special shout out to all those who came before me, the alumni from my school and the Ettrick Trojans, as well as those who came after me.
"So, with that, I just want to say: Dream big. Stay focused. Never give up."
In another Bengals statement, Pro Bowl quarterback Carson Palmer remembered Johnson: "He lit up the locker room. A joyful presence. He had such the big smile, and he loved being around the fellas. And his family was always around after the games."
Topics: NFL, Sport, Mental Health, Celebrity
Ellie Kemp