Former USC RB Charles White, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1979, died Wednesday. He was 64.
USC announced the death of White, who is still the Trojans’ career rushing leader with 6,245 yards. The nine-year NFL veteran died of cancer in Newport Beach, California.
A two-time All-American and Los Angeles native, White won a national title in 1978 before winning the Heisman in the following season, when he captained the Trojans and led the nation in yards rushing. White led the Trojans in rushing in each of his final three seasons. He also won the Walter Camp, Maxwell and Pop Warner Awards after his senior season.
White was named the Rose Bowl’s MVP in both games following the 1978 and 1979 seasons. White was the third of USC’s record eight Heisman winners, and he is still regarded reverently at the school long known as Tailback U.
White was the 27th overall pick in the 1980 draft by the Cleveland Browns, and he spent five years with the Browns, missing the entire 1983 season due to injury. He joined the Rams in 1985 and played four more seasons
Former NFL RB, 1979 Heisman Trophy winner Charles White. Photo courtsey of Pro Football Talk
