Rashard Anderson, a former first-round pick for the Carolina Panthers in the 2000 NFL Draft, has died at the age of 45.
Anderson died Wednesday in Mississippi, but the cause of death was not disclosed.
“We offer our condolences to his family and loved ones,” Panthers said in a statement.
Anderson had a brilliant career at Jackson State University before being picked 23rd in the Panthers’ first round. During his time at the Carolinas, Anderson played in 27 games, including nine starts. However, in 2003, Anderson was suspended for drug addiction and never played in the league again.
Anderson tried to qualify for the Canadian Football League’s Calgary Stampeders but failed to make the final squad.
“Today is a sad day for the JSU family,” Ashley Robinson, Jackson State vice president and director of athletics, said in a statement via ESPN. Rachar is one of the best players in the history of our football program and has a unique personality. He attended a football game in the spring in April and was excited about the program’s return to the championship. Jackson State University will always remember Rashard and this time our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
According to ESPN:
Anderson helped Jackson State win the Southwest Athletic Conference as a freshman in 1996 and led the Tigers to the SWAC East Division title in 1999. draft.
Anderson was remembered by his friends on Twitter.
That’s why I’m devastated… Have a place in heaven my friend
pic.twitter.com/eSSrum9tnW
– Rob Jay (@robjaykappa) 13 July 2022
Damn, I lost a brother, a friend, a teammate this morning. My friend was a father, son, nephew and uncle. My Dog Rashard Anderson, former Carolina #1 selection, JSU graduate and Forest High graduate has changed! #CancerSucks #LLRIH46 pic.twitter.com/5DmpfLJhex
– Marcus Rogers (@CoachRogers88) 13 July 2022
According to a Yahoo post, Anderson worked as a substitute teacher and assistant football coach at a pair of high schools in Jackson, Mississippi.
Source: Breitbart
