Cedric Benson, the running back whose NFL career included stints in Chicago, Cincinnati and Green Bay, died late on Saturday night. He was 36.
Reports indicate that Benson was involved in a motorcycle/minivan collision in north Austin. Benson initially entered the public spotlight during his time playing for the University of Texas at Austin: he received the Doak Walker Award, presented to the nation’s best collegiate running back, in 2004.
Writing for the Austin American-Statesman, Ryan Autullo and Tony Plohetski have more details on the crash:
Austin emergency officials told the American-Statesman that they are investigating the crash in the 5600 block Mount Bonnell Road after 10 p.m. Saturday and had information that Benson and a passenger were killed. Two other adults who were injured in the crash suffered non-fatal injuries. Official confirmation by the Travis County medical examiner could come later in the day Sunday.
After graduating from college, Benson was drafted fourth overall by the Chicago Bears, where he played from 2005 until 2008. After being released by the Bears, he signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played until 2011. In August 2012, he signed a one-year deal with the Green Bay Packers. Two months later, he suffered a severe foot injury, effectively ending his career.
His time playing college football in Austin is still regarded fondly by Longhorns fans, and he is considered by many to be one of the greatest players to have played for the team.
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