Former Auburn and Chargers running back Lionel James, regarded by many as “Little Train” due to his 5’6, 171-pound frame, passed away on Friday at the age of 59 following a lengthy illness, the school announced.
James played for the Tigers alongside former Heisman Trophy winner Bo Jackson before being selected by the Chargers in the fifth round of the 1984 NFL draft. Though his professional career only last five seasons, James made a name for himself by becoming a do-it-all threat for the Bolts.
As a rookie, James wasted little time in announcing himself in the NFL as he led the entire league in kick return yards with 959.