Former Cincinnati Bengals running back Rudi Johnson has died at age 45 following an apparent suicide, according to reports. The former Auburn University standout, who spent the majority of his career with the Bengals, was found deceased in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, on Monday.

Johnson, selected in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft, played seven seasons with Cincinnati, becoming one of the franchise’s most prolific rushers. He recorded 5,742 career rushing yards and 48 touchdowns, ranking fourth and third respectively in team history. His 2004 season was his most notable, featuring 1,454 rushing yards and a Pro Bowl selection.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office confirmed the death is under investigation but stated “no foul play is suspected.” Detective Joseph Peguero told NBC News that “all indications are leading to suicide.” Johnson’s home in Sunny Isles Beach was the site of the emergency response, though officials declined to confirm his identity due to privacy protections.

Bengals president Mike Brown described Johnson as a “fine person” and “excellent running back,” praising his reliability and popularity among teammates. Tributes poured in from former colleagues and organizations, including Auburn Football, which honored him as a “2000 SEC Player of the Year” and “one of the best to ever wear the orange and blue.”

Johnson’s career concluded with a single season for the Detroit Lions in 2008 before his release. His college legacy at Auburn included winning the SEC Offensive Player of the Year award in 2000, tallying 1,567 rushing yards in 324 carries that season.