Advertisement

Central Michigan DB Derrick Nash dies after 2-year bout with leukemia

Sam Cooper
·College football writer

Central Michigan defensive back Derrick Nash died Monday after a two-year bout with leukemia. He was 20 years old.

"This is a very difficult loss for our football program and entire Chippewa Athletic Program," said CMU Director of Athletics Dave Heeke. "Derrick was an inspiration to us all and the fight he showed will never be forgotten. The incredible courage he exhibited in never allowing this terrible disease to dampen his positive outlook on life, is a tremendous representation of the type of man he was. Our thoughts and prayers are with Derrick's family and friends during this difficult time."

Nash signed a national letter of intent to play for CMU in February 2013, and was diagnosed with leukemia three months later. He underwent chemotherapy and was able to return to the field for the Chippewas’ 2014 spring game, but the leukemia returned in the fall.

Though he never played in a game for the Chippewas, he was the team’s honorary captain for the 2014 Popeyes Bahamas Bowl. The team also wore a helmet sticker and wristbands to honor Nash throughout the season.

"Derrick fought a great fight and he will never be forgotten," CMU head coach John Bonamego said. "I know everyone can learn a lot from the way he lived his life and the passion and enthusiasm he showed even during the tough times. We will do whatever we need to do to help his family get through this difficult time.

"I never got to coach Derrick on the football field, but I am proud to have been his coach the last few months. He is one of the toughest young men I have ever known and the determination and resolve he showed is how we will always remember him."

Nash, a native of Saginaw, Mich., was a star running back at Carrollton High School. As a senior, he led the state with 1,967 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns before signing with Central Michigan.

For more Central Michigan news, visit ChippewaCountry.com.

- - - - - - -

Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!