The former Colorado University running back Rashaan Salaam, has passed away at 42. He was one of the best athletes that came out of the school. He was also one of the four people that rushed over 2,000 yards that season, which won him the Heisman Trophy. He we be missed by coaches who had nothing but great things to say about him.

VIA| In 1995 the Chicago Bears selected Salaam in the first round of the NFL draft. Salaam became the youngest runner in NFL history to reach the 1000-yard mark. Salaam ran for 1,074 yards in his rookie season.

Sadly though, Salaam could not build on that success. The former Heisman winner battled injuries over the next three seasons, resulting in his release by the Bears in 1997. Salaam attempted a comeback with the Browns in 1999 but carried the ball only once in two games.

Former Colorado Coach Bill McCartney spoke about the passing of his former player on the university website. McCartney said, “He was very coachable. 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.”

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