Eddie Johnson "The Assassin" #51

Eddie Johnson, a beloved husband, father and former Cleveland Brown, lost his nearly two plus-year battle with colon cancer on January 21, 2003. He died at the age of 43. He is gone, but will never be forgotten.

Johnson played his entire NFL career with the Cleveland Browns from 1981 to 1990, and captained the team for five of his ten professional seasons.

He was one of the key players for the Browns in their runs to the AFC Championship Games in the 1986, '87 and '89 seasons. He was one of the team’s leading tacklers during his years as a starting linebacker, and was always an inspirational leader.

Johnson, a seventh-round draft pick in 1981, was a fixture on the Browns' special teams before becoming a starter in 1983.

Noted for his dedication to the program, Johnson was a four-year starter at the University of Louisville. He won MVP honors and was named to the All-Metro Conference and All-South Independent teams.

Johnson, who recorded a school-record 35 tackles in a single game, earned the nickname “The Assassin” for his hard hits and aggressive play.

He was also a high-school standout in football, as well as track and basketball. He was named All-City and All-State at Dougherty High School (Albany, Ga.), and was inducted to the Albany Hall of Fame in 2000.

Along with his many athletic accomplishments, Johnson was also a proud volunteer for many charitable organizations throughout his life. After retirement from football he became one of the most sought after former Browns for autograph signings and motivational speaking.

He enjoyed working with kids, especially the underprivileged. He donated his time and efforts to many charity events, including golf outings and football camps.

Johnson, a father of three, had five brothers and two sisters. He was also survived by his wife, Theresa Hudak, who he married on Jan. 1, 2003. His son, Rahshan, attends Bowling Green State University. His daughters, Elise and Elexis, are active in both softball and basketball.