Alabama Crimson Tide running back Ray Hudson has passed away, as reported by Ryan Phillips of Patch.com and confirmed by former teammates on social media. The details surrounding the 42-year-old’s death are currently unclear.
Hudson played a crucial role as a rotational running back for Alabama from 2001 to 2004, accumulating 278 carries for 1639 yards and seven touchdowns. Additionally, he made 30 receptions for 333 yards and three scores across 42 games. In 2004, he held the lead back position until a leg injury curtailed his season.
Although he signed as an undrafted free agent with the New Orleans Saints in 2004, he was released after a brief stint in training camp.
In 2014, Hudson joined more than 65 former football players in a lawsuit against the NCAA, addressing concerns about the organization’s handling of concussions during his playing career.
Reflecting on his experiences, Hudson revealed to Al.com in 2014, “I should have taken myself out of the play because I didn’t understand anything.” He described moments where everything would go black, acknowledging the impact on his performance on the field. Hudson documented two concussions, one during a 2002 practice and another in a 2004 game against Western Carolina.
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