Breaking News: Eagles Coach Breaks Silence After the QB’s Fatal Crash in Tragic Highway Collision
Philadelphia, PA — April 14, 2025
In a somber and emotional press conference held earlier this morning, Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Marcus Reddick broke his silence following the tragic death of star quarterback Darius “DJ” Johnson, who was killed in a fatal car crash late Saturday night on I-95.
The 26-year-old quarterback, known for his electrifying play style and charismatic leadership, was pronounced dead at the scene after his vehicle collided with a semi-truck near the Broad Street exit around 11:45 p.m. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, but early reports from Pennsylvania State Police suggest that icy road conditions and potential speed were contributing factors.
Johnson’s death sent shockwaves through the NFL community and beyond, as fans, players, and coaches alike mourned the loss of one of the league’s brightest young stars. The Eagles, who were coming off a 12-5 season and deep playoff run, now face an unimaginable void both on and off the field.
Coach Reddick, who had remained silent since the accident, addressed the media today with visible grief, struggling to hold back tears as he spoke about the player he had coached for four seasons.
> “We lost more than a quarterback,” Reddick said. “We lost a brother, a leader, a friend. DJ was the heart of this team. He brought a fire to the locker room that you don’t see every day. He wasn’t just born to play football — he was born to inspire.”
The press conference, held at the Eagles’ NovaCare Complex training facility, was attended by team executives, players, and Johnson’s family members, including his mother, Angela Johnson, and younger brother Malik.
Reddick recounted his first meeting with Johnson during the 2021 NFL Draft Combine, describing the moment he knew the young quarterback had something special.
> “He walked in with this swagger, this confidence, but it was humble. He said, ‘Coach, I’m not here to talk. I’m here to lead.’ And that’s exactly what he did every day.”
Since being drafted 7th overall in 2021, Johnson had quickly risen to become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. Known for his dual-threat capability, sharp football IQ, and clutch performances, he had led the Eagles to two NFC Championship appearances and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2023.
The crash occurred after Johnson was reportedly returning home from a charity event in Camden, NJ. The event, which supported underprivileged youth through sports mentorship, was a cause close to his heart. Multiple witnesses have confirmed that Johnson stayed late, speaking one-on-one with attendees and handing out signed footballs to children.
A statement released by the Eagles organization late Sunday evening honored Johnson’s commitment to the community.
> “Darius Johnson embodied the spirit of Philadelphia — resilient, passionate, and selfless. His impact stretched far beyond the football field. He was a champion for the people of this city and a beacon of hope to so many.”
Coach Reddick also revealed that the team has been in counseling sessions since the news broke and that grief support will remain available to players and staff.
> “There’s no playbook for this. But we lean on each other. That’s what DJ would’ve wanted. He would’ve told us to ‘lock in,’ to keep fighting — even when it hurts.”
Several of Johnson’s teammates took to social media in the hours following the announcement. Wide receiver Kaden Monroe posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram: “You threw me my first TD. But more importantly, you taught me how to be a man in this league. Love you forever, 7.”
Linebacker Andre Benton tweeted: “Hurts like hell. But I know you’re watching over us, bro. Fly high, DJ.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also issued a statement, calling Johnson “a rising star whose legacy will live on through the lives he touched.”
Plans for a public memorial service are currently underway, with Lincoln Financial Field expected to host the event later this week. Thousands of fans have already gathered outside the stadium, leaving flowers, jerseys, and candles in honor of their fallen QB.
Amid the grief, Coach Reddick expressed his commitment to guiding the team through what he called “the toughest chapter in our history.”
> “We’ll honor DJ by how we live, how we play, and how we support each other. This season is for him.”
The Eagles’ front office has yet to make an official statement on the future of the quarterback position, but sources within the organization indicate that backup QB Marcus Hill will likely step into the starting role. Hill, who shared a close friendship with Johnson, declined to speak to the press but released a short message through the team:
> “I’m heartbroken. DJ was my brother. I’ll carry his spirit with me every time I step on that field.”
As Philadelphia reels from the loss, it’s clear that Darius Johnson’s legacy will be felt for years to come — not just in touchdowns or playoff wins, but in the memories he created and the lives he changed.
A moment of silence is expected to be observed at all NFL games next weekend, with players across the league wearing helmet decals bearing Johnson’s jersey number, 7.
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