Rashaan Salaam, a Heisman Trophy winner and first-round pick by the Chicago Bears, has died at the age of 42. He was found dead Monday night at Eben G. Fine Park in Boulder, Colo. His mother, Khalada said that the police believe his death to be a suicide after finding a note, according to USA TODAY.
Rashaan Salaam, former Heisman Trophy winner and Bears RB, dies at age 42
Salaam was found in a Boulder park Monday night.
“They said they found a note and would share that with us when we get there,” Salaam’s mother said. “It’s just a big trip. That’s all I can say,” she added. “We just found out this morning, and we’re going to Colorado to take care of him.”
“The Buff Family has lost an outstanding young man and a great Buff today,” Colorado Athletic Director Rick George said. “We are heartbroken for Rashaan and his family and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.”
Salaam was best known for his play on the field during his collegiate career at Colorado from 1992-1994. His junior season, he had 298 carries, rushed for 2,055 yards, and had 24 touchdowns en route to his Heisman Trophy. It was one of the best seasons in school history.
“He was very coachable,” former coach Bill McCartney said. “He had a happy heart. I loved being around him. He didn’t take himself too seriously, and he always credited those around him, especially his offensive line. What I liked about him is that he had a sparkle in his eye. He was upbeat and positive.”
After a stellar college career, Salaam was drafted by the Bears 21st overall in the 1995 NFL draft. He spent the first few seasons of this career with the Bears, and played one final season in 1999 with the Cleveland Browns. He had short stints with the Memphis Maniax of the XFL in 2001, as well with the San Francisco 49ers on their practice squad in 2003, and the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL in 2004.
After his career, he went back to Colorado. “Ever since he came back, he’s been willing to do whatever we’ve asked him to do to represent the school,” David Plati, CU’s associate athletic director and sports information director told The Denver Post in December of 2014.
“He was a tremendous competitor, a great teammate and he will be sorely missed,” said former Buffs player and coach Jon Embree. “He loved the Buffs.”
See More:
