Dennis Quaid has signed on to the biopic, The Express for Universal Pictures.

The film is the true story of football great Ernie Davis, a former college football running back from the 1960's; he broke many player records and racial barriers playing at Syracuse University, becoming the first black player to win the Heisman Trophy. Davis' NFL career was cut short when he was diagnosed with leukemia. The Hollywood Reporter notes Quaid will play Davis' coach, who eventually becomes his champion; the role of Davis has not been cast.

Gary Fleder is directing the Charles Leavitt script; shooting on The Express is scheduled to begin in March.