Former NFL Player Kevin Johnson Found Dead in Los Angeles Homeless Encampment

Former NFL defensive tackle Kevin Johnson was found dead in a Los Angeles homeless encampment on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, according to multiple news sources. The 55-year-old former Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders player was discovered on the 1300 block of East 120th Street in Willowbrook, California, with officials ruling his death a homicide.

Johnson, who played three seasons in the NFL with the Eagles and Raiders after being selected by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL draft, had been living on the streets and may have suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), according to friends who spoke with local media. His death has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by former professional athletes dealing with long-term health issues and homelessness.

Career Overview and NFL Journey

Johnson’s football journey began at Westchester High School in Los Angeles, where he helped his team win the CIF Los Angeles City Section football championship in 1987. He then played college football at Los Angeles Harbor College from 1989 to 1990 before transferring to Texas Southern University, where he played for the Texas Southern Tigers from 1991 to 1992.

Selected in the fourth round (86th overall) of the 1993 NFL draft by the New England Patriots, Johnson’s professional career included time with several teams. He spent the 1993 season with the Patriots and Minnesota Vikings as an offseason and/or practice squad member before joining the Oakland Raiders in 1995. His most productive NFL seasons came with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played from 1995 to 1996.

In his first season with Philadelphia in 1995, Johnson recorded 19 total tackles, six sacks, and a touchdown on a fumble recovery in 11 games. The following year, he logged one sack and 24 combined tackles in 12 games. He then played one season for the Oakland Raiders in 1997 before finishing his professional career in the Arena Football League with the Orlando Predators (1998-1999) and Los Angeles Avengers (2000-2001), where he was part of an ArenaBowl championship team in 1998.

His career NFL statistics show 54 tackles, seven sacks, and one fumble recovery, according to Pro Football Reference.

Discovery and Investigation

Johnson was discovered deceased on Wednesday morning in a homeless encampment located on the 1300 block of East 120th Street in Willowbrook, California. Friends told ABC 7 that he had been living at the encampment and was found stabbed and beaten to death. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office ruled his death a homicide, and an investigation is ongoing, according to official statements reported by local news outlets.

Bruce Todd, a close friend who served as best man at Johnson’s wedding, described him to ABC 7 as “my best friend” and “a great guy, fun-loving,” adding that “the community is going to miss him.” Todd as well acknowledged that Johnson’s health issues, which friends believe may have included CTE, played a role in his circumstances.

Health Concerns and Post-Football Life

Friends of Johnson have indicated that he may have suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head trauma common in football players. While no official medical diagnosis has been publicly confirmed, those close to him noted that his health struggles contributed to his homelessness.

Johnson’s case highlights ongoing concerns about the long-term health effects of football and the support systems available to former players after their careers end. The NFL has implemented various programs in recent years to address player health and wellness, including the NFL Player Care Foundation and resources for cognitive health, though challenges persist for many former athletes navigating life after football.

Remembering Kevin Johnson

Beyond his football accomplishments, Johnson is remembered by those who knew him as a beloved community member from Los Angeles. His high school days at Westchester, where he helped secure a city championship in 1987, remain a point of pride for his hometown. Friends and former teammates have emphasized his positive personality and the impact he had on those around him throughout his life.

As the investigation into his death continues, the sports community mourns the loss of a player who contributed to the game during his time in the NFL and Arena Football League. His story serves as a reminder of the complex challenges that can affect athletes long after their playing days are over.

The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the homicide, and further details will be released as they become available through official channels.