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University: Utah star freshman running back Ty Jordan dead

Ty Jordan,Jahad Woods
Posted at 2:31 PM, Dec 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-26 15:31:21-05

DALLAS (AP) — University of Utah officials say star freshman running back Ty Jordan has died.

Authorities have not released details about the circumstances of the Mesquite, Texas, native's death.

The school announced Jordan's death on Saturday, a day after the 19-year-old was named Pac-12's newcomer of the year.

He finished the season with 597 yards rushing, 11 catches for 126 yards, and six touchdowns.

Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said in a statement that "words cannot express the devastation and heartache" that the team is feeling about Jordan's death.

"Ty's personality and smile were infectious and he made a huge impact on our program in the short time he was with us," Coach Whittingham said. "He leaves an indelible mark on each of us and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. From the bottom of our hearts, all of us in the Utah Football Family want to say we love you Ty, and may you rest in peace."

According to KSTU, Jordan was a three-star recruit out of Texas and was the first Ute true freshman to rush for over 100-yards in back-to-back games since 1995.