Kevin Johnson
NFL Wide Receiver
Kevin Lamar Johnson, a tenacious defensive tackle who played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders before becoming a champion in the Arena Football League, died on January 21, 2026, in Los Angeles, California. He was 55 years old.
Born on October 30, 1970, in Los Angeles, Kevin was a standout athlete at Westchester High School. He began his collegiate path at Los Angeles Harbor College before transferring to Texas Southern University, where his prowess on the defensive line drew the attention of NFL scouts.
Kevin was selected by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft (86th overall). After stints with the Patriots and Minnesota Vikings, he found his stride with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1995.
During his breakout 1995 season, Kevin played in 11 games, recording six sacks and 19 tackles. His most memorable highlight came when he recovered a fumble and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown, showcasing the agility that defied his 300-pound frame. He played another season with the Eagles and spent the 1997 season with the Oakland Raiders.
Following his NFL tenure, Kevin transitioned to the Arena Football League (AFL), where he became a key player for the Orlando Predators. He helped lead the team to victory in ArenaBowl XII in 1998, securing a professional championship ring. He concluded his professional career with the Los Angeles Avengers in 2001.
A Life Remembered Off the field, friends and former teammates remember Kevin as a "standout" talent and a beloved figure who faced his later years with resilience. While his post-football life was marked by personal challenges, including struggles with addiction and homelessness, those who knew him recall the strength and spirit he carried throughout his life.
Kevin is survived by his son and extended family, who have expressed their grief and love on social media.