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Former NFL Running Back Lawrence Phillips Found Dead In Prison Cell

California Department of Corrections officials say they suspect Phillips committed suicide. He was facing murder charges.

Former NFL Running Back Lawrence Phillips Found Dead In Prison Cell
Getty Images / Eliot J. Schechter
SMS

Imprisoned ex-NFL running back Lawrence Phillips was reportedly found dead Wednesday in his cell.

California Department of Corrections officials say they suspect 40-year-old Phillips, who was facing murder charges, committed suicide.

Last year, prosecutors charged Phillips with killing his cellmate. He was also convicted of domestic violence and other charges.

In the 1990s, Phillips helped the University of Nebraska win a pair of national championships before going pro.

In the NFL, he played for the Rams, Dolphins and 49ers, though his off-field troubles cut his playing days short.

This video includes images from Getty Images.