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The Marshall football program is dealing with a tragic loss following the death of former star running back Devon Johnson. Johnson, who was just 25 years old, passed away on Tuesday, November 6. The university confirmed Johnson’s death with a post on social media.
“I am shocked and saddened at the news of Devon Johnson’s passing,” Marshall head coach Doc Holliday said in a statement. “Devon was a force in our program, both literally and figuratively. 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.”
Johnson was a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award in 2014 and named to the All-Conference USA First Team. The running back suited up for the Thundering Herd from 2012-2015.
During his time at Marshall, Johnson rushed for 2,373 yards and 25 touchdowns on a school-record 7.8 yards per carry. He added 27 receptions for 423 yards and six touchdowns. After his time at Marshall, Johnson attended the NFL Scouting Combine and was briefly a member of the Carolina Panthers.
All of the information we know about Johnson’s passing can be seen below.
Devon Johnson Cause of Death: Currently Unknown
https://www.instagram.com/p/w_wou-PQPc/
Johnson’s death was confirmed by the Marshall University Athletics Department, though no cause of death was immediately announced at the time of his passing.
“I don’t know how to even begin to out this into words, but we lost one of the greatest Blues to ever grace this Earth tonight,” a statement from his high school, Richlands High School in Virginia, read on Twitter. “Former Richlands, Marshall and Panthers great Devon Johnson has passed away far too early. Please pray for this town.”
I don’t know how to even begin to out this into words…but we lost one of the greatest Blues to ever grace this earth tonight.
Former Richlands, @HerdFB and @Panthers great Devon Johnson has passed away far too early.
Please pray for this town.
Say hey to #CT32 for us. 💔 pic.twitter.com/Mw8zdnoA1m
— BlueTornadoLive (@BlueTornadoLive) November 6, 2018
Our deepest condolences are with all of those impacted by Johnson’s death at this tragic time.
