James Owens, Auburn's 1st African-American football player, dies
Auburn is honoring "trailblazer" James Owens, who passed away Saturday at the age of 65, the school confirmed in a statement.
Head coach Gus Malzahn shared his thoughts on Owens' death and legacy on Twitter:
Saddened by the passing of James Owens. He was a trailblazer, a true legend and great Auburn man. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.
— Coach Gus Malzahn (@CoachGusMalzahn) March 26, 2016
Owens, Auburn's first African American player, played fullback from 1969-1972 for the Tigers, recording 225 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He was a key member of the 1972 "Amazins" - a team that went 10-1.
The Fairfield, Ala., native, who was taken in the 11th round of the 1973 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, had been battling multiple health issues the last few years.
His nephew, LaDarius Owens, also played at Auburn, winning an SEC championship in 2013.
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