Ex-Mississippi State running back Dontae Walker, who served jail time for drug possession, dead

Dontae Walker, a former Mississippi State running back, has died.

The program announced his death on Saturday, posting a short statement on social media which read: ‘The Mississippi State Family mourns the passing of Dontae Walker. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and teammates.’

Walker rushed for more than 1,800 yards and 22 touchdowns during his time with the team.

He is best know for featuring in the ‘Snow Bowl’ in 2000 against Texas A&M, where his team fought back for a narrow 43-41 win.

Walker seemed destined for the NFL but he was cut from the team after reporting back for his senior year overweight.

And after his college career ended, Walker was arrested for cocaine and marijuana possession and sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2005.

He was released from prison in 2009, serving four years, and went back to school to finish his degree at Belhaven University.

‘I wanted to cry when they called my name,’ he said to The Clarion Leger back in 2013.

‘It’s been a long ride and I have been working hard. I want people to see I am a productive member of society.’

Of his time in jail, he said: ‘I overcame that mishap. The good Lord gave me another chance. I didn’t make it to the NFL, but the good Lord gave me another chance.’

A cause of death has not been given.