Football isn’t Marcus Lattimore’s only gift

Never has one man meant so much to a university.

Marcus Lattimore was an all-world football player, but it was never carrying the football that defined him. The way he interacted with everyone he met, the way he championed being a good person over a good athlete, left an impact on every person that came into contact with him.

As a player, he led South Carolina to its only SEC East championship and despite a limited career, recorded career marks in rushing and total touchdowns. As a person, he continues to impact the university, spreading its message throughout the state and Southeast and working as an ambassador while he finishes his degree. After graduation, he will join new football coach Will Muschamp’s staff as a life coach.

The athletic highlights were numerous but what defined Lattimore more than any yard he collected was the outpouring of support he received after his second knee injury. The country responded as if each person had a personal relationship with him – which many of them probably did.

Lattimore’s attempt to still play in the NFL worked into a roster spot and the best health of his life, but only he knew of the pain his rebuilt knee was causing him. He walked away with an eye on his future, desiring to be able to play with his children someday.

The way he fought to be able to come back and the glowing atmosphere of his presence will forever remain.

This story was originally published December 17, 2015 at 10:53 AM.