Former Eagles, Raiders Lineman Dies At 55 After Stabbing at L.A. Homeless Encampment
When it was announced that a former NFL player had passed away in January 2026, it was surprising news. However, the stunning and sad circumstances of his sudden death is the thing that is really shocking observers.
Former NFL Lineman, Kevin Johnson, Killed at 55
????️ Former Philadelphia Eagles player Kevin Johnson has died, according to his family.
— TMZ (@TMZ) January 22, 2026
What we know: https://t.co/qfYqY2Ofgk pic.twitter.com/eiBuQZuCFE
On January 22, 2026, TMZ reported that the former NFL lineman Kevin Johnson had passed away at 55 years old. The outlet's article stated that the death was being mourned on social media by his friends and family members, including his son.
A Newsweek article from the same day provided more details on Johnson's tragic passing after the Sports division spoke to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Lt. Steve De Jong. The former football player reportedly was found dead on January 21 in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Coroner has ruled that he died due to blunt-force stab wounds, and the outlet reported that the circumstances were being investigated as a homicide.
Johnson's body was found in a South Los Angeles homeless encampment in the unincorporated Willowbrook area. Sheriff's Lieutenant De Jong told the outlet that it appeared that the location appeared to be where he was living. "Unfortunately, it appears he was homeless. It looks like he was probably living there."
Kevin Johnson Played in the NFL and AFL During His Football Career
Saddened to learn of the passing of former Eagles defensive tackle Kevin Johnson . Here he is scoring a touchdown in an October 1995 victory over the rams https://t.co/tEcSIW9iwc
— Phillies and Eagles throwbacks (@Philsbirdsthrow) January 23, 2026
A USA Today article published after Johnson's passing summarized his football career. Born in Los Angeles, Johnson played in college at Los Angeles Harbor College and Texas Southern. He then went on to be drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft. Eventually released by that team, Johnson went on to briefly play for the Oakland Raiders and joined the Minnesota Vikings practice squad before the Philadelphia Eagles signed him off waivers, and he was part of the team for two seasons. After returning to the Raiders, Johnson left the NFL.
Johnson's football career didn't end there. Instead, he went on to play four seasons in the Arena Football League. During that time, he was a part of the team that won the ArenaBowl in 1998, the Orlando Predators. In addition to playing for the Predators, Johnson ended his career with the Los Angeles Avengers in 2001.
Our thoughts are with Kevin Johnson’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.