IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – A former Hawkeye football player has died at the age of 43.
According to the University of Iowa, Derreck Robinson passed away on Wednesday in San Diego.
Robinson was a defensive lineman at Iowa from 2001 to 2004. During that time, the team won two Big Ten Conference titles and several bowl games.
Robinson went on to sign with San Diego in the NFL, and played for Miami and Cleveland before retiring in 2011.
In 2016, he returned to Iowa City to serve as the honorary captain for Iowa’s Big Ten Conference game against Michigan. Iowa won the game with a final score of 14-13.
“We are surprised and saddened to hear about Derreck’s passing,” said Iowa Head Football Coach Kirk Ferentz. “Derreck had a big, beautiful personality that inspired those around him. As a player, he persevered through ups and downs and was an important leader on our 2004 Championship team. He had a solid career in the NFL and made a great impact on those around him after football in California. We were excited to have him back as an honorary captain for our win over Michigan in 2016. His legacy continues to inspire our players today. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Derreck’s family, former teammates, and many friends across the country.”
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