Basic Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Derrick Lassic (born Derrick Owens) |
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1970 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 55 years |
| Place of Birth | Haverstraw, New York |
| High School | North Rockland High School, Thiells, New York |
| College | University of Alabama |
| Profession | Retired NFL Running Back, Business Ventures |
| Marital Status | Previously married to Arthel Neville (1995–1998); Currently married with four children |
| Residence | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Estimated Net Worth | Around $1 million |
Early Life and Background
Derrick Lassic’s journey began in the crisp winters of Haverstraw, New York, like a spark igniting on frozen turf. Born Derrick Owens on January 26, 1970, he grew up in a working-class setting, though details about his parents and siblings remain shrouded in privacy. At North Rockland High School in Thiells, under coach Joe Casarella’s watchful eye, Lassic transformed into a football force. His senior year in 1987 shattered records: 1,719 rushing yards on 245 carries, zero fumbles, 26 rushing touchdowns among 31 total, and 194 points scored. This propelled his team to a flawless 10-0 record and three straight Section 1 Class A bowl wins. Accolades poured in—New York State large-school Player of the Year, All-state honors, USA Today High School All-American. Beyond the gridiron, he dashed in track and swung bats in baseball, honing a versatility that whispered of greater stages ahead. A scholarship to the University of Alabama beckoned, where he redshirted in 1988, setting roots in Southern soil.
College Career Highlights
At Alabama, Lassic’s path unfolded like a deliberate drive downfield. From backup to starter, his senior 1992 season shone brightest: 905 rushing yards on 178 carries, averaging 5.1 yards per attempt, 10 rushing touchdowns, plus 129 receiving yards and one score through the air. Career totals reached 1,696 rushing yards on 349 carries with 13 touchdowns, landing him 11th on the Crimson Tide’s all-time list. The 1992 squad, undefeated at 13-0, claimed the national title. Lassic starred in pivotal games—MVP in the first SEC Championship against Florida with two touchdowns, then Sugar Bowl MVP against top-ranked Miami, churning 135 yards and two scores in a 34-13 demolition. His ground game, paired with stout defense, dismantled opponents, etching his name in Alabama lore.
NFL Journey and Achievements
Drafted 94th overall in the fourth round by the Dallas Cowboys in 1993, Lassic stepped into turmoil like a rookie facing a blitz. With Emmitt Smith holding out, he started the season opener against Washington on Monday Night Football—the first rookie to do so for a defending Super Bowl champ, only the third in Cowboys history. He rushed for 75 yards in that loss, then aided early efforts. Smith’s return relegated him to backup, but Lassic tallied 75 carries for 269 yards and three touchdowns that year. He suited up for Super Bowl XXVIII, witnessing victory over Buffalo from the backfield’s final play. Injuries struck hard—a torn quadriceps in 1994 sidelined him on injured reserve. Selected by expansion Carolina Panthers in 1995, knee, hamstring, and thigh woes led to waiver. Brief 1996 stint with San Francisco 49ers and 1998 with Toronto Argonauts yielded no games. Retirement followed, his career a brief but championship-laced sprint.
Post-Retirement Life and Business Ventures
Post-football, Lassic retreated to Atlanta, Georgia, embracing shadows over spotlights. He dove into business, including a travel enterprise tied to “Millionaire Mindset,” as glimpsed in social media from ex-teammate Sherman Williams. His life now orbits family and quiet pursuits, far from the roar of stadiums. A 2025 chiropractic video revealed ongoing back issues from playing days, a lingering echo of gridiron battles.
Family Dynamics and Personal Relationships
Lassic’s personal sphere, guarded like a well-defended end zone, centers on family. He wed journalist Arthel Neville in 1995, on NFL Draft day no less. Neville, daughter of funk icon Art Neville and Doris Neville, connected him to a musical legacy including uncles Aaron, Cyril, and Charles. Their marriage dissolved in 1998, childless and without public drama. By 2017, Lassic had remarried—spouse unnamed in records—and fathered four children. One daughter, a senior at Alabama that year, hinted at continued Crimson Tide ties. No details emerge on parents or siblings, underscoring his discretion. Stability defines this chapter, free of scandals, focused on nurturing his brood.
Financial Insights
Lassic’s finances, estimated around $1 million, reflect a grounded post-career reality. Speculative figures vary—$914,000 in 2020, $1.15 million in 2021—from his lone significant NFL season. Cowboys earnings and Super Bowl share formed the core, supplemented by business like travel ventures. No extravagance marks his path; comfort stems from prudent steps rather than windfalls.
Recent News and Social Media Presence
In 2025, Lassic surfaces sparingly, his legacy flickering in digital nods. A January chiropractic reel spotlighted NFL-induced back woes, blending health tips with football reminiscences. Social platforms like Facebook and Instagram occasionally revive his Alabama mindset before Miami clashes or Cowboys starts. Business promotions appear via allies, but no headlines disrupt his tranquility. Mentions tie to past glories, not present storms.
Career Statistics Overview
| Career Phase | Rushing Yards | Carries | Touchdowns | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High School (Senior Year) | 1,719 | 245 | 31 (26 rushing) | NY State Player of the Year; USA Today All-American; County records |
| College (Career Total) | 1,696 | 349 | 13 | 1992 National Champion; Sugar Bowl MVP (135 yards, 2 TDs); SEC MVP |
| NFL (1993 Season) | 269 | 75 | 3 | Super Bowl XXVIII Champion; Rookie starter for defending champs |
| Post-NFL | N/A | N/A | N/A | Business in travel; Family with four children |
FAQ
Who is Derrick Lassic?
Derrick Lassic is a retired NFL running back who contributed to Alabama’s 1992 national title and Dallas Cowboys’ Super Bowl XXVIII win. Born Derrick Owens, he maintains a private life in Atlanta focused on family and business.
What is Derrick Lassic’s net worth?
Derrick Lassic’s estimated net worth hovers around $1 million, based on his brief NFL earnings and post-retirement ventures. Figures remain speculative without official disclosures.
When was Derrick Lassic born?
Derrick Lassic was born on January 26, 1970, in Haverstraw, New York. He is 55 years old as of 2025.
Who are Derrick Lassic’s family members?
Lassic was married to Arthel Neville from 1995 to 1998 and is now remarried with four children, including a daughter who attended Alabama. Details on his current spouse and extended family stay private.
What were Derrick Lassic’s college achievements?
At Alabama, Lassic rushed for 1,696 career yards and earned MVP honors in the 1992 SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl. He helped secure the national title in an undefeated season.
What is known about Derrick Lassic’s NFL career?
Drafted by the Cowboys in 1993, Lassic started amid Emmitt Smith’s holdout and won Super Bowl XXVIII. Injuries shortened his tenure, with stints at Carolina, San Francisco, and Toronto.
Where does Derrick Lassic live now?
Derrick Lassic resides in Atlanta, Georgia, post-retirement. He focuses on business and family there.
Is Derrick Lassic active on social media?
Lassic has a presence on Facebook and Instagram, with occasional posts on his football legacy and business. Recent 2025 content includes a chiropractic video addressing back issues.
How did Derrick Lassic perform in high school?
In his 1987 senior year, Lassic rushed for 1,719 yards and 26 touchdowns without fumbling. He earned New York Player of the Year and All-American honors.
What business is Derrick Lassic involved in?
Lassic engages in travel-related business, including “Millionaire Mindset” ventures. Social media from teammates highlights these post-football pursuits.
