Michael Westbrook is Shocked and Heartbroken Over Rashaan Salaam's Death

Michael Westbrook says he's devastated over the death of his U of Colorado teammate, Rashaan Salaam ... saying he's in "utter shock" and wishes he could've helped his friend.

Westbrook and Salaam DOMINATED as a WR, RB combo in college -- especially during their 11-1 season in 1994 (the year Rashaan won the Heisman).

Michael says he's been an emotional wreck since learning about Rashaan's death this week -- and says looking back, there may have been a warning sign.

Westbrook says Salaam missed an event at the Colorado Hall of Fame last month -- and teammates scrambled to get in contact with him. Teammates were puzzled at his absence but didn't think much of it.

"I think that maybe should've been a sign or something for us."

(Obviously, Westbrook couldn't have known he was in as bad of a place as he was)

Westbrook goes on to share his favorite memories with Rashaan ... from always having a smile on his face to giving his offensive line all the credit for his 2,000 yard season.

R.I.P.