NEWYou can now listen to Pakinomist articles!
Former LSU receiver Devonta Lee, who was a member of the 2019 national championship team, has died, his former team confirmed Thursday. He was 26.
The circumstances surrounding Lee’s death were not immediately known. Louisiana Tech University, another football program he played for, also confirmed his passing.
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs wide receiver Devonta Lee (8) returns a kick against the Army Black Knights during the second half of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana on Dec. 28, 2024. (Danny Wild/Imagn Images)
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Devonta Lee, a former Bulldog wide receiver,” read their statement at X. “Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and former teammates during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a member of the Bulldog family.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON Pakinomist
“The LSU Football family mourns the loss of former Tiger, Devonta Lee,” LSU added in another post. “Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and teammates.”
TMZ Sports reported that Lee was previously diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, after the 2022 season after complaining of severe back pain. He later underwent several surgeries and treatment before being declared cancer-free.
Devonta Lee (16) of the LSU Tigers warms up during a game at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Oct. 16, 2021. (Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Lee’s mother, Lacresia Brown, told KTVE that he was battling cancer at the time of his death.
“He was a fighter and he loved everyone. [Devonta] was a good child [and would] do anything for anybody,” she told the magazine. “He loved football [and] he gave everything he did. He trained every day [and was] a very tough, dedicated player [who] never gave up on football. [I will miss] my son.”
LSU Tigers wide receiver Devonta Lee (16) is tackled by Central Michigan Chippewa defensive lineman Thomas Incoom (9) during the first half at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Sept. 18, 2021. (Stephen Lew/USA TODAY Sports)
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE Pakinomist APP
Lee, a Louisiana native, appeared in 37 games across five college football seasons. He played three seasons at LSU, collecting nine receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown. In two seasons with the Bulldogs, he totaled two catches for 17 yards in three games.
Related article
