Former Los Angeles Rams star running back Jon Arnett died today at the age of 85. He reportedly died of heart failure.
Arnett has a deep history with the Rams franchise. The Rams drafted Arnett back in 1957 out of USC. It was actually there he earned the nickname that followed him into the NFL, “Jaguar Jon.” He was such a quick, athletic and elusive runner, he drew comparisons to a jaguar.
Arnett was part of a dynamic duo that included Dick Bass. These two tormented defenses whenever they both were on the field. It wasn’t just the offense either. Arnett caused mayhem on special teams too and still holds a franchise record of a 105-yard kick return for a touchdown.
Arnett was eventually traded to the Chicago Bears in 1964 and stood there for three seasons. In his 10-year career, he went to the Pro Bowl five times and recorded 3,833 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns. He also had two touchdown passes and 10 receiving touchdowns.
Among being a historic professional athlete, Arnett founded the Retired Professional Athlete Foundation. Our hearts go out to the Arnett family.
Source: ESPN.com
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