Lionel James, former San Diego Chargers’ running back and a member of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, passed away on Friday at 59 after a protracted illness. James, 5-foot-6, was also known as ‘Little Train.’

When he joined the Chargers as the Runnin Back Athlete, he was a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. When he stepped onto the turf and performed, everyone applauded his display of dominance.

Lionel James: the ferocious little engine

James was well-known for his size and athleticism, which set him apart from other competitors. He had a stellar career with the Auburn Tigers before being drafted in the fifth round of the 1984 NFL Draft by the San Diego (now LA) Chargers. The athlete is a go-getter who makes the most of every opportunity to represent his team on the turf.

In his second season, Lionel James led the AFC with 86 receptions and set a league record with 1,027 receiving yards for a running back. During his second season, the athlete also set an NFL record with 2,535 yards. James led the Tigers to their first Southeastern Conference Championship in almost 26 years in 1983. As a captain, he was in charge of the team.

Despite the fact that the athlete only played in the NFL for five years, he was regarded as the most renowned running back at the time. Following his time in the league, James returned to Auburn to teach Terry Bowden’s tight-end athletes from 1996 to 1997. “Little Train” was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

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You can rest now, Little Train

Following the unfortunate incident, Auburn Sports issued a press release. Lionel James received sympathies from the gridiron football community. Quarterback Randy Campbell, who co-captained Auburn’s 1983 SEC winning team, called Lionel a special person who is thoughtful, and caring, also an ultimate team player. He makes every athlete around him a better athlete. David Housel said in the press release that James has defined Auburn football for generations.

The Twitterverse also sent their condolences and homage to the deceased athlete. The Los Angeles Chargers, for example, posted a photo of the player with a caption reading, “rest easy, little train.”

James’ coach and former Chargers teammates praised the athlete on Twitter, calling him a talented player who is also a great teammate and person.

Lionel James is an inspiration to the NFL and young athletes interested in pursuing a career in the sport. He is a wonderful example of how, regardless of your size, you can do great things. May the soul of the departed rest in peace and harmony. Godspeed.

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