Charles Alexander, renowned as the first player in Southeastern Conference history to rush over 4,000 yards and a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist, will have his LSU jersey honored with a retirement.
Charles Alexander, affectionately known as “Alexander the Great,” is set to have his LSU jersey retired, a fitting tribute to one of the most prolific running backs in college football history. This honor recognizes his monumental contributions to LSU and the Southeastern Conference (SEC), where he became the first player to rush over 4,000 yards.
From 1975 to 1978, Alexander redefined the running back position at LSU. He amassed 4,035 career rushing yards and 40 touchdowns, setting nine SEC records and 27 LSU records, including:
- 1,686 rushing yards in a single season (1977)
- 153.3 rushing yards per game in a season
- 43 carries in a single game
His 1977 season remains one of the most dominant in LSU history, highlighted by four 200+ yard games. Despite the emergence of future stars like Leonard Fournette, Alexander’s records stood as benchmarks for decades .
Alexander’s prowess on the field earned him national recognition. He was a two-time consensus All-American (1977 and 1978) and finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1978 and ninth in 1977. In 1977, he was also named the SEC Most Valuable Player .
In 2012, Alexander’s legacy was cemented with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. He became only the eighth LSU player to receive this honor, joining the ranks of legends like Billy Cannon and Tommy Casanova .
Following his illustrious college career, Alexander was selected 12th overall in the 1979 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He played seven seasons in the NFL, including a start in Super Bowl XVI. After retiring from football, he remained active in the LSU community and youth programs, continuing to inspire future generations
LSU will honor Charles Alexander by retiring his jersey, a testament to his unparalleled impact on the program and the sport. This ceremony will celebrate his achievements and ensure that his legacy continues to inspire both players and fans alike.
