Cedric Myron Benson was born on December 28, 1982, in Midland, Texas. His football journey began at Abell Junior High School, under Coach Chris McKinney. Later, at Robert E. Lee High School, Benson’s dominance emerged—8,423 rushing yards, three State Championships, and the first high schooler on Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine cover.
The Midland hero then powered the Texas Longhorns, earning accolades and finishing as the second-highest rusher in team history. A no-frills social work and sociology major, Benson faced legal troubles in college, including arrests for marijuana and trespassing.
In 2005, the Chicago Bears drafted him fourth overall. Contract disputes and injuries clouded his early days, but he rose, scoring crucial touchdowns. Released in 2008 after an alcohol-related arrest, he found redemption with the Cincinnati Bengals. A 1,000-yard season and franchise records ensued.
Benson’s NFL journey continued with the Green Bay Packers, cut short by a foot injury. Baseball history with the Dodgers lingered—a 12th-round pick.
Post-NFL, Benson shifted to loan origination, but legal issues persisted. Multiple arrests, including boating while intoxicated, DUI, and assault charges, stained his legacy.
On August 17, 2019, tragedy struck. Benson and Aamna Najam died in a motorcycle crash in Austin, Texas. Two years later, a mentorship program honored his memory at Gus Garcia Young Men’s Leadership Academy. Benson’s Midland roots and gridiron triumphs resonate in the enduring legacy of a hometown hero.
