No, former Oklahoma running back Rodney Anderson, who’s only 28, did not die, but another former OU running back, Rotnei Anderson, did sadly pass away late Sunday night, according to multiple reports.
There was confusion among Sooner Nation after Jim Traber on Monday afternoon during his radio show on The Sports Animal said that Rodney Anderson had died, with context insinuating it was the younger of the two.
Shortly after, through, Anderson posted on social media to clear the air and confirm he is still alive.
“I think something was said on the @sportsanimal about me passing away. No need for alarm… I’m good! Jim, you got some explaining to do,” Anderson wrote.
I think something was said on the @sportsanimal about me passing away. No need for alarm… I’m good! Jim, you got some explaining to do lol
— Rodney Anderson (@24RAnderson) September 8, 2025
Like Traber mentioned, Rodney Anderson is the older brother of former OU wide receiver Nic Anderson, who just transferred to LSU this offseason. Rodney Anderson played for the Sooners in 2015-18 before a one-year stint in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals. Today, Anderson is the manager of NIL business for Sooner Sports Properties.
Former OU running back Rotnei Anderson dies
Rotnei Anderson played for OU in 1984-88 and was part of the Sooners’ 1985 national championship team. Anderson’s former teammates and former coach, Barry Switzer, had posted throughout the last year that he was suffering with “severe health challenges.”
Rotnei Anderson played on our 1985 National Championship team and graduated in 1988. He was an outstanding player but he is an incredible person! He has had multiple severe health challenges that have drastically changed his life and is needing our help.
— Barry Switzer (@Barry_Switzer) July 18, 2024
Every little bit helps…
It was tragic news that was unfortunately shrouded by confusion.
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