For his own good, the all-time player for the Colorado Buffaleos has officially announced his retirement.
One of the most iconic players in Colorado football history, Rashaan Salaam will always be remembered as one of the best players to ever play in Boulder.
The 1994 Heisman Trophy winner’s No. 19 jersey will be retired following this season, according to CU’s announcement on Friday. The 42-year-old Salaam, who committed suicide on December 5, will only be the fourth player in CU history to have their number retired.
When CU plays California on homecoming weekend, on October 28, there will be an official retirement ceremony. Salaam will become one of just four CU players to have their number retired, along with Byron White (No. 24, 1936–37), Joe Romig (No. 67, 1959–61), and Bobby Anderson (No. 11, 1967–69).
Athletic director at CU Rick George stated, “We just felt it was the right time for us to do it.” “Hopefully, a sold-out crowd will be present to help us pay tribute to his legacy.”
The Heisman Trophy, which is given yearly to the best college football player, has only ever been won by Salaam, the only player in CU history. In 1994, he became just the fourth player in NCAA Division I history to surpass 2,000 yards of rushing with 2,055 yards and 24 touchdowns.
At the time Salaam reached the 2,000-yard milestone, bowl statistics were not kept track of and collegiate teams only played 11 games in the regular season. Teams now frequently play 12-, 13-, or 14-game schedules in addition to adding statistics for bowl games.
“The university took great pride in Rashaan’s Heisman Trophy win,” George remarked. “We felt it was appropriate to commemorate and honor his legacy as our first and only Heisman Trophy winner.”
At the annual Boulder Chamber of Commerce launch luncheon, held at CU, the announcement was announced. The announcement was given to the luncheon attendees by Larry Zimmer, the former KOA radio voice of the Buffs.
Calling every one of Salaam’s 27 games at CU, Zimmer said being asked to make the announcement as a “true honor.”
Michael Adkins II, a senior running back for CU, is currently wearing number 19, and he will do so for the duration of this campaign. Adkins, a San Diego native like Salaam, will be the final player from CU to wear No. 19.
Adkins remarked, “As a freshman with the history, it was an honor to get that number.” Being a running back from the same city—San Diego—it was really awesome. It was very unique.
“On that final round, I want to represent (the No. 19) well, carry that, and make him proud.”
Salaam played 8-man football at La Jolla Country Day School in San Diego before attending CU.
Sharing carries with others, Salaam gained 1,002 yards as a true freshman in his first two seasons with the Buffs.
Salaam led the nation in 1994 in all-purpose yards (2,349), scoring (144 points) and rushing. He recorded nine straight games with 100 yards or more. On the last play of a 27-26 victory against Michigan, he even made a crucial block that allowed quarterback Kordell Stewart more time to complete the 64-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass to Michael Westbrook.
Salaam was awarded the Walter Camp National Player of the Year and took home the Doak Walker Award in addition to the Heisman.
Salaam’s 3,057 career running yards rank third in CU history. He received an honorary locker at the Champions Center upon its opening in 2015 and was named into the CU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012.
Salaam forwent his final year at CU to participate in the NFL Draft, and the Chicago Bears selected him with the 21st overall pick in the first round. He gained 1,684 yards of yardage through rushes in four NFL seasons, 1,074 of which came in his first year.
But Salaam’s NFL career didn’t go as expected. He developed a marijuana addiction and lacked the work ethic he believed was necessary for success. That helped in the battle against depression following football.
Salaam, in spite of his inner troubles, was renowned for his kindness, modesty, and desire to provide a hand to others. He teamed together to tutor children with the SPIN Foundation (Supporting People in Need).
George stated that the retirement of Salaam’s jersey will serve as a permanent tribute to all that made Salaam exceptional, both on and off the field.
“Everyone is aware of his on-field accomplishments,” George remarked. “What a fantastic role model for many of our future teammates and running backs. But as we reflect on his legacy, we will all be reminded of what he accomplished, his smile, and the energy he brought to both his playing and his life.
