HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (AP) — A former Marshall University standout running back who led the team to a conference championship has died.
News outlets report 25-year-old Devon Johnson passed away Tuesday at Bluefield Regional Medical Center.
Marshall head coach Doc Holliday learned about Johnson’s passing after Tuesday’s practice. The cause of death was not known Thursday.
“I am shocked and saddened at the news of Devon Johnson’s passing. Devon was a force in our program, both literally and figuratively,” said Holliday.
“Whether on the field or off, his impact was immeasurable and he will be missed by so many at Marshall. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family.”
During the 2014 season, Johnson produced 1,767 yards and 17 touchdowns to lead Marshall to the Conference USA championship. He also set the Marshall single-game record for rushing yards with 272 against Florida Atlantic on Oct. 25, 2014.
Johnson was a native of Richlands, Virginia.
He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Carolina Panthers in 2016 but never made the team.
Devon Johnson Career Highlights
• Doak Walker Award Semifinalist in 2014
• First-team All-Conference USA in 2014
• School-record 7.8 yards per carry (career)
• School-record 272 rushing yards against Florida Atlantic on October 25, 2014 (single-game)
• 1,767 rushing yards in 2014 was second all-time at Marshall despite missing most of three games (single-season)
• 1,373 rushing yards is 10th all-time at Marshall (career)
• 19 touchdowns in 2014 is seventh all-time at Marshall (single-season)