Nick Eddy, a Unanimous All-American running back for the 1966 University of Notre Dame National Championship Team and Heisman Trophy finalist, has passed away at the age of 81.
Born in Dunsmuir, California and raised in Tracy, California, Nick played under the legendary Ara Parseghian. He quickly became a household name for Notre Dame fans, known for his rare combination of breakaway speed and physical power. In Eddy’s three varsity seasons, Notre Dame achieved a stellar 25-3-2 record, winning a consensus championship in 1966. Over the course of his storied career in South Bend, he amassed 1,625 rushing yards with a 5.6 yards-per-carry average, while adding 44 receptions for 708 yards with an impressive 16.5 yards per catch average. Among his many highlights was a 91-yard touchdown reception that proved vital in a hard-fought 17-15 victory at Pitt in 1964.
His senior season in 1966 was the defining chapter of his collegiate legacy. Despite playing through injuries that would have sidelined many, Eddy served as the offensive engine for the National Championship team. He famously ignited the ’66 title run in the season opener, returning a crucial kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown after the Irish fell behind to eventual Rose Bowl champion Purdue. He finished that championship campaign with 553 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 7.1 yards per carry. His versatility was further showcased on special teams, where he returned four kickoffs for 193 yards and two scores. His impact was so profound that he finished third in the 1966 Heisman Trophy voting behind Steve Spurrier and Bob Griese. His third-place finish was the highest for a Notre Dame running back since John Lattner won the award in 1953 and remained the highest finish for an Irish running back until the 2025 season.
Following his graduation, Nick was one of the most coveted prospects in professional football, possessing a rare combination of 210-pound size and 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash. He was selected as a top prospect in both the NFL and AFL drafts. Shortly after appearing in the College All-Star Game against Vince Lombardi’s NFL champion Green Bay Packers, Nick made an immediate impact in his professional debut. In his first exhibition game with the Detroit Lions, he scored on a 75-yard punt return the very first time he touched the football. Unfortunately, a knee injury suffered the following week led to an operation on his right knee that curtailed his professional career, but he did play six seasons for the Lions (1967–1972), where he was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his professionalism and his ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver.
After retiring from professional football, Nick worked in sales and also volunteered coaching high school football and track. Then dedicated his life to serving others through a career in education. Nick earned a Masters Degree and spent many years as a special education teacher in Modesto, California, where he was known for his patience, compassion, and commitment to his students. He remained a devoted Catholic while serving as President of the Knights of Columbus, was an active member of the Notre Dame Monogram Club. He also was a frequent visitor to campus, where he was always greeted as a hero of the 1966 squad.
On October 16, 1965, taking advantage of a rare bye week during the football season, Nick married his wife, Jean. Together, they built a life defined by love and service. Nick was a devoted father of four and a proud grandfather to nine. He is survived by Jean, their children, and their grandchildren.