Former Mississippi State running back Dontae Walker has died.
The program announced his death on Saturday, posting a brief statement on social media that read: “The Mississippi State family mourns the passing of Dontae Walker. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates.”
Walker rushed for over 1,800 yards and 22 touchdowns during his time with the team.
He is best known for participating in the 'Snow Bowl' in 2000 against Texas A&M, where his team fought back to a narrow 43-41 victory.
Walker seemed destined for the NFL, but was cut from the team after returning because he was overweight his senior year.
And after his college career ended, Walker was arrested for possession of cocaine and marijuana and sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2005.
The Mississippi State family mourns the passing of Dontae Walker. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates. pic.twitter.com/mreFj0EFV7
— Mississippi State Football (@HailStateFB) December 28, 2024
He was released from prison in 2009, served four years, and returned to school to finish his studies at Belhaven University.
“I wanted to cry when they called me,” she told The Clarion Leger in 2013.
'It's been a long journey and I've been working hard. I want people to see that I am a productive member of society.'
About his stay in prison, he said: 'I overcame that mishap. The good Lord gave me another chance. I didn't make it to the NFL, but God gave me another chance.
No cause of death has been given.