Former Jackson State football great Rashard Anderson has passed away at the age of 45.
Anderson, a first-round pick by the Carolina Panthers in 2000, played cornerback for the Tigers from 1996-1999, helping JSU win the 1996 Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship.
“Today is a sad day for the JSU family,” Jackson State Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson said on Wednesday. “Rashard was one the best players in the history of our football program and an outstanding person. He attended our spring game in April and was excited about the program returning to championship status. Rashard will always be remembered by Jackson State University, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.”
During two seasons with the Panthers, Anderson compiled 65 total tackles and one interception. He ended the 2001 season second in the NFL in fumble return yards.
“Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones,” the Panthers said in a statement.
Anderson concluded his professional career with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League before working as an assistant football coach at Callaway High School and Murrah High School in Jackson.
His cause of death is currently unknown.
