Chuck Muncie

Former NFL RB Chuck Muncie joined a growing list of retired players who have died too soon. Muncie suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 60.

He enjoyed a brilliant NFL career over nine seasons, including three Pro Bowls. He rushed for 6,702 yards and 71 TD's. Muncie finished second in the 1975 Heisman Trophy balloting and was the third overall selection in the 1976 draft by the New Orleans Saints.

Unfortunately for him, the Saints were at their worst. He enjoyed some very productive seasons, including 1979 when he rushed 238 times for 1,198 yards and 11 TD's. He also caught 40 passes for 308 yards.

He was traded to the San Diego Chargers prior to the 1980 season. He played a vital role in the infamous Air Coryell offense that was the staple of those great Charger teams. The Chargers lost the AFC Championship game to the Cincinnati Bengals after the 1981 season in a contest played under absolute brutal weather.

He was suspended by NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle after the first game of the 1984 season for cocaine use. After missing the entire season, he tried to return with the Minnesota Vikings in 1985, but quit for personal reasons.

His troubles continued after he was sentenced to 18 months in prison in 1989 for drug trafficking. After getting out of jail, he spent the rest of his years counseling adults and former gang members on drug issues. He established a charity that helped former gang members remove their tattoos which he felt hindered their ability to get a job from a prospective employer.

He also served as a volunteer counselor to athletes at the University of California, where he played.