USC Football: Former Trojans Star O.J. Simpson Passes Away, Losing Battle With Cancer

Matt Levine | Apr 11, 2024

Former USC Trojans football star running back O.J. Simpson has passed away at the age of 76. He had been battling prostate cancer. He died on Wednesday, April 10.

His family put out a statement regarding the loss of life on his social media account.

"On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace,"

On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer.

He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.

-The Simpson Family

— O.J. Simpson (@TheRealOJ32) April 11, 2024

Simpson was one of the all-time great running backs in football history. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1968, rushing for 1,709 yards. He helped get the Trojans to the Rose Bowl that season, but they ultimately fell short against Ohio State.

He played two seasons with the Trojans but made the most of it. He made or bettered 19 NCAA school and conference records during his time with the program. This made him a hot commodity when entering the NFL Draft and he was selected first overall by the Buffalo Bills in 1969.

Nicknamed, "Juice", Simpson made six Pro Bowls and was named the MVP in 1973. He averaged 141.3 yards per game during his record season, still holding the record for most averaged yards in a year.

Simpson had greatness on the football field but trouble off. He was acquitted of murder in one of the most famous trials in history. This includes the famous car chase involving a white Ford Bronco.

However, he did end up going to jail later on in life, being sentenced to 33 years in prison for a hotel robbery in 2007. He was granted early release from his parole in 2021, making him a completely free man again.

We wish his family and friends condolences at this time of mourning.