In a tragic turn of events, Kevin Johnson, a former NFL defensive lineman, was discovered dead on Wednesday morning at a homeless encampment in Southern California. He was 55 years old. The discovery was made in the Willowbrook area of Los Angeles, where deputies arrived just before 8 a.m. local time, responding to reports of an unconscious man. Unfortunately, upon their arrival, Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has determined the cause of Johnson’s death as “blunt head trauma” and “stab wounds,” ruling it a homicide. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding his death and are appealing to the public for any information or witnesses who might provide insights into the incident.

Johnson, who had been living at the encampment, was remembered fondly by friends who noted that despite facing health challenges later in life, he remained a cherished friend and continued to positively influence those around him. His story is a somber reminder of the struggles some face after the glory of professional sports fades, underscoring the complex realities of life after the NFL.

Investigators believe the former football player had been living at the encampment. They’re asking for help from any witnesses who might have seen what happened.

Friends say Johnson had health issues later in life that led him to live on the streets, but they called him a wonderful friend who still made an impact on his community.

“He was my best friend. I was best man at his wedding… Great guy, fun-loving. The community is going to miss him,” Bruce Todd told our sister station, ABC7 Eyewitness News in Los Angeles.

His friends said Johnson had health problems that they believe might have been the result of CTE.

Johnson, a native of L.A., played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders from 1995-1997.

After his career in the NFL ended, he played in the Arena Football League with the Orlando Predators and L.A. Avengers.