Longhorn legend Cedric Benson passes away at age 36

Former Texas Longhorns running back Cedric Benson has passed away at age 36, according to multiple posts from family members and former teammates.

He was reportedly involved in a motorcycle crash in West Austin on Saturday night. A passenger passed away in the accident, as well.

Benson, who played at Texas from 2001-2004, was a four-year starter for the Longhorns. He rushed for more than 5,000 yards while in Austin — accounting for 67 total touchdowns. As a senior in 2004, he received the Doak Walker award as the nation’s best running back.

Posts about Benson started circulating Sunday morning after a screenshot from Benson’s brother’s Facebook page shared news of his passing.

Former coach Mack Brown’s official Instagram account commented on a post about Benson, “We lost a great one way too soon. #RIP.”

A Midland native, Benson attended Midland Lee High where he led his team to three consecutive state championships. He was the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year in 2001, a two-time first-team Big 12 selection and a consensus All-American in 2004.