Lynell Hamilton’s journey in football was fraught with significant injuries, yet he remained determined to pursue his aspirations.
His resilience and tenacity enabled him to navigate these challenges, serving as a source of inspiration for others both on the field and in life.
The former running back from San Diego State will be honored as the Honor Warrior for the season opener against Texas A&M-Commerce on Saturday, where he will lead the Aztecs into Snapdragon Stadium and onto the field.
“Being invited back in this capacity is an honor and a full-circle moment,” Hamilton expressed. “For me, it truly represents what it means to give back.”
A native of Stockton, Hamilton made a remarkable debut as a true freshman in 2003, rushing for 1,087 yards and receiving All-American recognition from The Sporting News. He is among only three true freshman running backs at SDSU to achieve over 1,000 rushing yards, alongside legends Marshall Faulk and Ronnie Hillman.
Unfortunately, a serious ankle injury in the tenth game of that season prematurely ended Hamilton’s first year, requiring him to sit out the following season for recovery.
Overcoming Adversity: Lynell Hamilton’s Inspiring Journey.
Despite facing devastating injuries throughout his football career, Lynell Hamilton never lost sight of his dreams. His perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to others both on and off the field.
Collegiate Career.
Hamilton’s collegiate career at San Diego State University was marked by both impressive performances and setbacks. In 2003, he had an outstanding freshman year, rushing for 1,087 yards in 10 games and earning Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year honors. However, a severe ankle and leg injury in the 10th game of the season cut his first year short and forced him to miss the following season while recovering.
He returned in 2005 to lead the Aztecs with 819 rushing yards. Knee injuries limited Hamilton to only 146 yards over the next two seasons[1]. Despite the challenges, he finished his college career with impressive totals: 2,052 rushing yards, 14 rushing touchdowns, 57 receptions for 360 yards, and 3 receiving touchdowns.
Professional Career.
Hamilton’s perseverance paid off when he signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2008. After spending his rookie season on the practice squad, he made the Saints’ roster in 2009, the year they won Super Bowl XLIV[1][2]. Hamilton scored a touchdown in the Saints’ first playoff game during their championship season, though he missed the Super Bowl with an ankle injury.
In 2010, Hamilton was expected to play a larger role with the Saints, but suffered a torn ACL in training camp. The devastating injury ultimately ended his NFL career. Despite the setback, Hamilton remained determined to give back to the game he loved.
Giving Back.
Hamilton returned to San Diego State as a graduate assistant from 2011-2014, earning a master’s degree in post-secondary education[1]. He reflected on the significance of his alma mater in shaping his life, saying, “The university was foundational for much of what has transpired in my life, academically, personally and professionally.
Since 2018, Hamilton has served as president of the NFL Alumni Association, dedicated to “Caring for kids, caring for our community and caring for our own” across the nation. He emphasized the importance of guidance and positive outlets for young people, drawing from his own experiences.
As the Honor Warrior for San Diego State’s season opener against Texas A&M-Commerce, Hamilton will lead the Aztecs onto the field, a testament to his enduring connection to the sport and the university that shaped him. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with perseverance and resilience, one can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
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