Back in April, we told you about how former NFL player Lawrence Phillips—who is currently serving a 31-year prison sentence for assaulting his ex-girlfriend and running over a group of teenagers with his car—was suspected of strangling his prison cellmate to death. Prison officials launched an investigation after Phillips' cellmate Damion Soward was found dead at Kern Valley State Prison.

Now, Phillips has formally been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing Soward. He is reportedly not going to face the death penalty, but he could obviously face life in prison if he is found guilty of killing Soward.

For those who don't remember, Phillips, now 40, spent time playing for the Rams, Dolphins, and 49ers after a memorable college career at Nebraska. Stay tuned to see what happens during his murder trial.

Send all complaints, compliments, and tips to sportstips@complex.com.

[via ESPN]

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