Ron Johnson, the first African-American captain in Michigan football history and an All-America halfback in 1968, passed away on Saturday after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease, according to the University of Michigan athletic department. Johnson was 71.

A Detroit native, Johnson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992 and played seven seasons in the NFL.

Johnson's 347 rushing yards and five touchdowns against Wisconsin in 1968 remain single-game Michigan records. He ran for 19 touchdowns that season, also still a school record.

Playing for head coach Bump Elliott, Johnson finished his career as Michigan's all-time leading rusher. He currently ranks 17th, having been passed by Karan Higdon on Saturday.

Johnson was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the first round of the 1969 draft. He played one season for the Browns before finishing his career with the New York Giants. He was a two-time Pro Bowler.

Johnson is survived by his wife, Karen.