No. 4 Charles Alexander, SEC’s first 4,000-yard rusher and Heisman finalist, to have LSU jersey officially retired.

In the pantheon of LSU football legends, few names resonate as powerfully as Charles Alexander. A dominant force in the late 1970s, Alexander was the first player in Southeastern Conference (SEC) history to rush for over 4,000 yards and a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist. Now, over four decades after his last game in the purple and gold, LSU will retire his iconic No. 4 jersey — a fitting tribute to one of the most decorated running backs in college football history.

The ceremony represents more than just an acknowledgment of athletic greatness. It’s a celebration of perseverance, excellence, and the enduring legacy of a player who helped set the standard for what it means to be an LSU Tiger.

A Historic Career in Baton Rouge

Charles Alexander arrived at LSU in 1975 from Galveston, Texas, and by the time he left, he had rewritten the school and conference record books. During his time at LSU, Alexander:

• Rushed for 4,035 yards and 40 touchdowns
• Set an SEC single-season record with 1,686 rushing yards in 1977
• Became a two-time All-American (1977, 1978)
• Finished 5th in the Heisman voting in 1977 and 9th in 1978
• Played in two bowl games: the Sun Bowl and the Liberty Bowl

His combination of size, speed, and vision made him virtually unstoppable. Defenders struggled to bring him down, and fans packed Tiger Stadium to watch the electrifying No. 4 tear through opposing defenses.

What made Alexander’s achievements even more impressive was the era in which he played. Offensive schemes were simpler, and defenses were stacked to stop the run. Still, Alexander thrived — week after week, year after year.

Record-Setting and Trailblazing

Charles Alexander was a trailblazer for SEC running backs. Long before names like Herschel Walker, Bo Jackson, and Derrick Henry became synonymous with dominance, it was Alexander who showed what was possible on the ground.

When he broke the 4,000-yard barrier, it was an achievement unheard of in the conference — a benchmark that would eventually become a hallmark for elite backs.

He also set several LSU single-game records, including most rushing yards in a game (237 vs. Oregon in 1977) and most rushing touchdowns in a game (4). Many of those records stood for years, a testament to the rare talent Alexander possessed.

The Heisman Campaigns

Although he never took home the Heisman Trophy, Alexander was a serious contender in both 1977 and 1978. In ’77, he finished 5th in the voting, trailing winner Earl Campbell. In ’78, he again cracked the top 10.

Being a finalist in consecutive years solidified his place among college football’s elite. It also helped elevate LSU’s national profile during a time when media coverage was far more limited than today.

Alexander’s Heisman-worthy performances brought credibility to the program, influenced future recruiting, and raised the standard for future LSU backs.

NFL Career and Life Beyond Football

Following his historic college career, Charles Alexander was selected in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He went on to play seven seasons in the NFL, where he was a versatile contributor.

He was part of the Bengals team that reached Super Bowl XVI in 1982, contributing both as a runner and a receiver. While his NFL career didn’t mirror the statistical dominance of his college years, Alexander proved to be a reliable professional who brought the same work ethic and leadership to the pros.

After retiring from football, Alexander stayed connected to the LSU community, working in various roles within the athletic department and serving as a mentor to players and students. His commitment to the university off the field has been just as impactful as his legacy on it.

The Meaning of Jersey Retirement

LSU’s decision to retire Alexander’s No. 4 jersey places him in a very exclusive fraternity. Only a handful of players in LSU history have received this honor — legends like Billy Cannon (No. 20), Tommy Casanova (No. 37), and Jerry Stovall (No. 21).

Jersey retirement is the highest honor an LSU football player can receive. It’s a recognition that their contributions transcended statistics and games. It means they left a permanent imprint on the program’s history, culture, and spirit.

For Alexander, it’s a moment long overdue — and one that his teammates, coaches, and fans have eagerly awaited.

Reactions from the LSU Community

News of Alexander’s jersey retirement was met with widespread celebration among LSU fans and former players.

“Charles Alexander set the standard for greatness at LSU,” said current head coach Brian Kelly. “His legacy has inspired generations of Tigers, and it’s an honor to recognize his career in this way.”

Former teammates have echoed those sentiments, praising Alexander not just for his talent, but also for his humility and leadership.

“He was the heartbeat of our team,” said a former LSU lineman. “He made everyone around him better.”

The ceremony, expected to take place during the 2025 season, will include a halftime tribute at Tiger Stadium, a jersey unveiling, and special appearances by past and present LSU greats.

A Legacy That Still Shapes LSU Football

Decades after his last collegiate snap, Charles Alexander’s influence is still felt in Baton Rouge. His name often comes up when young running backs commit to LSU. His records are cited during broadcasts. His highlights are replayed in tributes and pregame hype videos.

In many ways, he set the foundation for the program’s rich tradition of running backs — from Dalton Hilliard to Kevin Faulk, from Joseph Addai to Leonard Fournette and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.

His success also helped solidify LSU’s reputation as a place where elite athletes could compete at the highest level while receiving a world-class education.

Inspiring Future Generations

As Alexander’s jersey is retired and raised into the rafters of Tiger Stadium, it sends a powerful message to current and future players: greatness is possible here.

His story — from a Texas high school standout to SEC record-breaker and first-round NFL pick — offers a blueprint for success. It’s about more than just yards and touchdowns. It’s about discipline, resilience, and representing something bigger than yourself.

In an era where college football is constantly evolving, the story of Charles Alexander remains timeless. It serves as a reminder that greatness endures, and legends never fade.

Final Thoughts

Charles Alexander’s place in LSU football history is unshakable. As the first 4,000-yard rusher in SEC history, a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist, and a symbol of excellence, his achievements continue to echo through the corridors of Tiger Stadium.

Retiring his jersey is more than a ceremony — it’s a celebration of one of the greatest to ever wear the purple and gold. No. 4 will now hang alongside other LSU immortals, where it rightfully belongs.

As LSU honors Charles Alexander, the program also reaffirms its tradition of excellence, its respect for history, and its enduring love for the athletes who gave everything for the team.

No. 4 isn’t just a number. It’s a legacy. And now, it’s forever.