OJ Simpson: the sporting life of the controversial American football player who changed the spotlight for prison

Orenthal James “OJ” Simpson, born on July 9, 1947 in San Francisco, California, died this Wednesday at the age of 76, his family announced on social networks this Thursday. Despite his success on the playing field, his sporting career was marred by a series of controversies and legal problems following his retirement. However, his legacy as one of the most talented and dominant running backs in American football history remains undeniable.

Although he never won the Super Bowl with Buffalo (1969-1977) and San Francico (1978-1979), Simpson is considered one of the best players of the 1970s.

Before turning to the police pages, he emerged as one of the most notable figures in the history of American football. His college career at the University of Southern California (USC) catapulted him to national fame, where he stood out as an exceptional runner. Simpson left an indelible mark on the college field, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1968, recognition given to the best college player in the country.

After his successful college experience, OJ Simpson made the jump to the National Football League (NFL) when he was selected as the first overall pick in the 1969 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. In Buffalo, he established himself as one of the best running backs in the league. His ability to elude defenses and gain yards made him a team icon, leading him to multiple Pro Bowls and setting numerous records along the way.

The highlight of OJ Simpson’s sports career came in the 1973 season, when he set an NFL record by rushing for 2,003 yards in a single season. This monumental achievement earned him the nickname “Juice,” a nickname that would accompany him throughout his life. Simpson became the first running back in league history to surpass 2,000 yards in a 14-game regular season, a milestone that stood for nearly two decades.

“On April 10, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” his family wrote on the athlete’s X account this Thursday.