According to the U.S. baby name data, the name Rashaan reached the boys’ top 1,000 for the first and only time in 1995:
- 1997: 52 baby boys named Rashaan
- 1996: 62 baby boys named Rashaan
- 1995: 140 baby boys named Rashaan [rank: 940th]
- 1994: 38 baby boys named Rashaan
- 1993: 19 baby boys named Rashaan
What was drawing attention to the name that year?
College football player Rashaan Salaam, who won the Heisman Trophy in December of 1994.
As a junior at the University of Colorado, Salaam (a running back) rushed for 2,055 yards — becoming the fourth player in college football history to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a single season — and scored 24 touchdowns. The Colorado Buffaloes ended up with an overall record of 11–1, placing third in the NCAA rankings.
Salaam forewent his senior year to enter the 1995 NFL draft. After a successful rookie season with the Chicago Bears, his performance declined, and he left the league several years later.
Sadly, after battling with depression (which was fueled by his belief that he’d failed to live up to expectations), Salaam committed suicide in 2016.
What are your thoughts on the name Rashaan?
P.S. Runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1994 was Ki-Jana Carter…
Sources:
- Rashaan Salaam – Wikipedia
- Howell, Brian. “Lasting legacy: Rashaan Salaam’s life still inspiring others.” BuffZone.com 15 Dec. 2019.
- SSA
Image: Rashaan Salaam trading card
