LORMAN, Miss. – The Alcorn State University Department of Athletics mourns the passing of former Braves football standout and 2025 Alcorn State Athletics Hall of Fame inductee Arnold Walker III, who passed away Saturday in Atlanta.
An Atlanta native and graduate of Ronald E. McNair High School, Walker established himself as one of the most accomplished running backs in Alcorn State football history during his career in the Purple and Gold.
Walker concluded his collegiate career with 2,806 rushing yards, breaking a school record that had stood for more than 30 years. His historic senior season in 2013 cemented his place among the program's all-time greats.
Starting all 12 games that season, Walker rushed for 1,191 yards on 224 carries and scored 16 rushing touchdowns. He led the Southwestern Athletic Conference in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns while averaging 5.3 yards per carry and 99.2 rushing yards per game. Walker rushed for more than 100 yards seven times during his senior campaign, including six consecutive 100-yard performances. His season included a career-high 156 rushing yards and two touchdowns in Alcorn's 44-38 overtime victory over Southern, including the game-winning touchdown.
His 16 rushing touchdowns established an Alcorn State single-season record, while his 96 points also set a program single-season scoring mark. Walker's record-setting campaign helped lead the Braves to a 9-3 record, marking Alcorn's first winning season since 2006 and its first nine-win season since 1984.
For his performance, Walker was named the 2013 SWAC Co-Offensive Player of the Year and earned First Team All-SWAC honors. He was also selected as a finalist for the C Spire Conerly Trophy, presented annually to the most outstanding college football player in Mississippi, and was selected to participate in the FCS Senior Scout Bowl.
Walker earned his bachelor's degree in mass communications from Alcorn State University in 2013.
His remarkable career and contributions to Alcorn State Athletics were formally recognized in 2025 when he was inducted into the Alcorn State Athletics Hall of Fame, forever placing his name among the legends of Braves athletics.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arnold Walker. Arnold was not only one of the greatest running backs to wear the Purple and Gold, but he was a proud Alcornite whose accomplishments and legacy will forever be a part of the history of our football program.Having had the opportunity to celebrate Arnold and his remarkable career with his induction into the Alcorn State Athletics Hall of Fame last year makes this loss especially difficult for our Alcorn family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, former teammates, friends and everyone whose life he touched. Once a Brave, always a Brave," said Director of Athletics, E. D'Wayne Robinson.
Walker leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, perseverance and an enduring place in the Alcorn State football record book. His accomplishments on the field and his connection to Alcorn State will forever remain a part of the proud tradition of Braves football.
The Alcorn State University Department of Athletics extends its deepest condolences to Walker's family, friends, former teammates and loved ones during this difficult time.
Information regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be shared as it becomes available.
