Kevin Johnson, a former NFL defensive lineman, was found dead at a homeless encampment in Los Angeles at the age of 55.
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Johnson died on January 21 from blunt head trauma and stab wounds. Deputies discovered him shortly before 8 a.m. on East 120th Street while responding to a report of an unconscious man. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials believe Johnson had been living at the encampment prior to his death. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that the investigation remains active.
A Los Angeles native, Johnson played college football at Los Angeles Harbor College and Texas Southern University in Houston, where he was a teammate of future Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Strahan. In 1993, he was drafted in the fourth round by the New England Patriots and later played for teams in Oakland, Minnesota, and Philadelphia, including two seasons with the Eagles. His time with Philadelphia ended in 1996 following a suspension for missing practice. Johnson also had a stint in the Arena Football League with teams in Los Angeles and Orlando.
Following news of his death, the Las Vegas Raiders (formerly Oakland) paid tribute to Johnson on social media: “The Raiders Family mourns the loss of Kevin Johnson. A defensive lineman out of Texas Southern, Johnson played for the Silver and Black for one season, appearing in 15 games in 1997. Previously, he recorded seven sacks in 23 games over two seasons in Philadelphia. Our prayers are with Kevin’s family during this difficult time.”
Friends said Johnson had fallen into homelessness due to health struggles. “He was my best friend,” said Bruce Todd, who served as the best man at Johnson’s wedding. “Great guy, fun-loving. The community is going to miss him.”
