Louis Rankin

Louis Rankin (born May 4, 1985) is an American former professional football running back. He was signed by the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at the University of Washington.

Early life

Rankin played football, basketball, and track for the Lincoln High School Trojans of Stockton, California. As a senior, Rankin rushed for 2,245 yards and 41 touchdowns, setting the school record. His success won him first-team all-state selection by CalHi Sports.

College career

Rankin signed with the Washington Huskies in February 2003 and after redshirting during the 2003 season, he played in eight games as a redshirt freshman in 2004, totaling 35 yards on nine carries.

Over the next three seasons, Rankin would carry the ball 479 times for 2,445 and 11 touchdowns including 1,294 yards and six touchdowns as a senior in 2007. His senior season was the first time in 10 years that a Washington tailback was able to break 1,000 yards.

Rankin still ranks 10th all-time in Washington program history with 2,480 yards rushing.

Professional career

Oakland Raiders

During the 2008 preseason Rankin rushed for 148 yards on 21 carries (a 7.0 average), including a 72-yard run in the Raider's preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers. He was released by Oakland during final cuts on August 30, but re-signed to the team's practice squad the following day. He was then promoted to the Raider's active roster on December 13, 2008.

Rankin was released by the Raiders on September 25, 2009.

Seattle Seahawks

Rankin was signed to the Seattle Seahawks practice squad on September 30, 2009. He was activated on October 28.

Oakland Raiders

On January 6, 2011, Rankin signed a future deal with the Oakland Raiders. He was waived by the Oakland Raiders during final roster cuts on September 3, 2011.

Saskatchewan Roughriders On February 10, 2012, it was announced that Rankin had signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League.

Personal

His uncle is former NFL wide receiver Webster Slaughter, who played for five different teams from 1986-1998.