University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Craig "Ironhead" Heyward Passes Away at 39
5/27/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
May 27, 2006
Craig "Ironhead" Heyward, a bruising All-America running back at the
Heyward passed away from complications caused by a recurring brain tumor, a condition he had originally been diagnosed with in 1998.
"Craig Heyward truly ranks among the all-time greats in Pitt football history," said Panthers head football coach Dave Wannstedt. "I will always remember him as a tremendous player who had an irrepressible attitude on and off the field. We spoke just a few weeks ago and I was struck by the typical upbeat `Ironhead' attitude he displayed despite his health. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Pitt family are with Craig's loved ones during this time of sorrow."
Nicknamed "Ironhead" for his battering running style, Heyward finished his collegiate career as Pitt's third all-time leading rusher with 3,086 yards. An unconventionally sized tailback at 6-feet, 260 pounds, he rushed for 1,791 yards in 1987 to earn consensus All-America honors and finish fifth in the Heisman Trophy balloting.
Heyward's 1987 rushing total is second in Pitt annals only to Tony Dorsett's 2,150-yard season in 1976. Heyward joined Dorsett as the only Pitt backs to rush for 100 yards or more 12 times in a single season.
Following the '87 campaign, Heyward elected to forego his final season of eligibility and turn professional. In the 1988 NFL Draft he was selected in the first round by the New Orleans Saints with the 24th overall pick.
Heyward went on to play 11 seasons in the NFL, including five with
Heyward leaves four sons. It is anticipated that arrangements will be finalized by Monday, May 29.
