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Former NFL first-round draft pick Charles Johnson tragically passed away on July 17th, 2022. He was found inside a hotel room in Raleigh a day after his wife Tanisha alerted local authorities that her husband was missing. Johnson was only 50 years old.
Johnson's cause of death remained a mystery for almost six months. However, a North Carolina medical examiner's report finally clarified the reason behind his untimely passing. And the situation is grim.
How did Charles Johnson die?
Per a report released by the North Carolina medical examiner obtained by USA Today, Charles Johnson died due to a drug overdose. He reportedly had oxycodone, hydrocodone, and mirtazapine in his system during his death. Johnson did not have a prescription for the three drugs in his system.
No foul play is suspected in Johnson's death, and his untimely passing has been ruled a suicide. USA Today had previously reported that the former Patriots wide receiver was suffering from disabilities due to the wear and tear of playing football.
Charles Johnson's storied football career and NFL stats
Johnson spent four years at the University of Colorado between 1990 and 1993 and was the team's star wide receiver. After a quiet freshman year, he played 11 games for three straight seasons for the Colorado Buffaloes. He caught 127 passes for 2,447 passing yards and 15 touchdowns.
Johnson's exploits in college prompted the Pittsburgh Steelers to draft him with the 17th overall pick in the 1994 NFL draft. He spent five seasons with the team before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 1999.
After two years in Philly, Johnson joined the New England Patriots for the 2001 NFL season and was part of the team that won the Super Bowl, Tom Brady's first. He joined the Buffalo Bills for the 2002 NFL season and called it a day on his career after only one season with the team.
Johnson finished his NFL career with 354 catches for 4,606 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Everyone at Sportskeeda extends their hearty condolences to Charles Johnson's loved ones.
