Chicago Bears

Former Chicago Bears RB Rashaan Salaam Found Dead

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

Sad news today as former Chicago Bears’ first round pick Rashaan Salaam was found dead in Boulder, Colorado.

Sad news out of the sports world today, and specifically for the Chicago Bears family as Rashaan Salaam was found dead in Boulder, Colorado. Salaam was found in a Boulder park on Monday night; he was 42.

Salaam was a star at the University of Colorado, rushing for over 2000 yards in 1994 and earning himself the Heisman Trophy. The Bears made him their first round pick in 1995 (21st overall).

More from Bear Goggles On

Salaam had a solid rookie campaign for the Bears gaining 1074 yards on the ground and scoring 10 touchdowns, but his career derailed after that due to injuries and fumbling issues. By 1998, Salaam was off the Bears and by the end of the 1999 season, Salaam was out of the NFL.

University of Colorado Athletic Director released this statement: “The Buff Family has lost an outstanding young man and a great Buff today. We are heartbroken for Rashaan and his family and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.”

His former college coach Bill McCartney stated: “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.”

Say whatever you want about Salaam the football player, obviously his career never panned out, but ask anyone that knew Rashaan Salaam and they would tell you what a wonderful person he was. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. It’s a sad day for sure.

Bill Zimmerman is an editor and featured writer for FanSided‘s BearGogglesOn. Like his Facebook page or follow him on Twitter for more news and interaction.

This article originally appeared on