Football fans have had to mourn a heartbreaking number of NFL stars in 2023.
In January 2023, the Detroit Lions confirmed that Jessie Lemonnier had passed away at the age of 25. “We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit tight end Jesse Lemonnier,” a statement from the team read. “Jesse was an exemplary colleague and a wonderful young man who passed away too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Lemonnier agent Drew Smith, confirmed to ESPN at the time that his client was expecting his first child before his death. No further details were revealed about the linebacker’s death.
The death of Alex Collins also shocked sports fans when he died in August 2023 after a motorcycle accident at the age of 28.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning,” the athlete’s family said in a statement at the time. “Alex was cherished by his family and friends as well as supporters from around the world. Everyone who truly knew him can attest to his leadership, determination and larger-than-life personality. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for our family during this difficult time. We ask for privacy as we navigate through our grief. We will provide Updates on funeral arrangements as they become available.
Scroll down for the heartbreaking NFL tragedies of 2023: