Chuck Muncie was a star running back at the University of California from 1973 to 1975. Following his phenomenal collegiate career, Muncie went on to have a solid pro career, playing for the New Orleans Saints and San Diego Chargers.
Passing away Tuesday morning at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack, Muncie leaves behind wonderful memories from his playing days as he is sure to be remembered forever by the two professional organizations he played for.
"Sadly, we have learned of the untimely passing of Chuck Muncie," Saints owner Tom Benson said in a statement issued through the teams website. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and other loved ones at this difficult time."
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Selected third overall by the Saints in the 1976 NFL Draft, Muncie rushed for 659 yards on 149 attempts during his rookie season while recording well over 200 receiving yards. Splitting work out of the backfield with former Saints great Tony Galbreath, Muncie and his running back mate became known as 'Thunder and Lightning' for their incredible combination of strength and speed.
His best season in New Orleans came in 1979 when the three-time Pro Bowler rushed for 1,198 yards and 11 touchdowns on 238 carries. He was named to the 1979 All-Conference 2nd team for his performance during the season.
Joining the San Diego Chargers in 1980, Muncie enjoyed more success on the west coast, rushing for over 1,100 yards in 1981 while leading the league in touchdowns with 19. For his unbelievable numbers, Muncie was selected to the All-Conference First Team that same season.
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Passing away at the young age of 60, Chuck Muncie will surely be missed by a team he had great success with.
"Everyone at the Chargers is deeply saddened by the passing of Chuck Muncie, one of the greatest running backs in Chargers history," the team said in a statement on their website. "We will remember him as a tremendous athlete with a larger-than-life personality. It's a said day for all of us and all Chargers fans."
While he was extremely productive in 8 NFL seasons, Muncie's career would have been longer had he been able to avoid drug problems, an issue that began while he was a student at California.
Suspended by former commissioner Pete Rozelle in 1984 after testing positive for cocaine, Muncie's career would come to an end shortly after. In 1989, the former running back was arrested and sentenced to 18 months in prison for selling cocaine.
Able to turn his life around following his jail term, Muncie began working with children and adult drug addicts in an attempt to help them correct their lives and not make the same mistakes he made.
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Establishing the Chuck Muncie Youth Foundation in 1997, Muncie was able to offer advice and counseling to troubled kids. He was also a tremendous role model for many athletes at his alma mater.
"He simply wanted others to learn from his mistakes," Muncie's former wife Robyn Hood told ESPN. "He carried that message with him everywhere he went. And as a result, he changed the lives of hundreds of kids. He made a difference."
Correcting his life for the better during the early part of the 1990's, Chuck Muncie undoubtedly became a true role model for many people.
As the NFL, fans and family members mourn the passing of the football great, it is truly easy to see why Chuck Muncie was beloved on and off the football field.
Rest in peace Mr. Muncie.
WATCH A Tribute Video In Honor Of Chuck Muncie:
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