Sports
Charles Johnson: Details Released On Death Of Former Steeler, Eagle
Johnson, a former University of Colorado star, also played for the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills in his nine-year NFL career.
RALEIGH, NC — The death last year of Charles Johnson, a former wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles, has been ruled a suicide. Johnson, 50, apparently overdosed on drugs, according to a USA Today report that cited a report released Monday by the North Carolina state medical examiner's office.
Johnson was found dead in a hotel room in July, a day after being reported missing by his wife. Although he had no active prescriptions at the time of his death, the medical examiner's report indicated toxic levels of oxycodone, hydrocodone and mirtazapine in his body.
According to USA Today, Johnson claimed to have suffered from brain, head and spinal injuries from his nine years in the NFL.
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Johnson, a standout University of Colorado receiver,was the Steelers' first-round draft selection in 1994. In addition to the Eagles, he also played for the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills.
After his retirement in 2002, Johnson served as an assistant athletic director at a North Carolina high school.
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