Former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden was tragically killed in a car accident in Houston, along with five others, according to the Houston Police Department. Hayden, who was 33 years old, was among those pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
The accident, which occurred around 2 a.m., involved two vehicles—a Chrysler 300 and an Acura SUV. The Chrysler was found to be at fault, having run a red light at a high speed. Four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while four others were transported to a local hospital. Sadly, two of those transported also succumbed to their injuries.
Tragically, the list of casualties from the accident includes not only Hayden’s former University of Houston teammates but also individuals who shared profound bonds with him on and off the field. Among them were cornerback Zach McMillan and offensive lineman Ralph Oragwu, whose promising futures were cut short by the devastating event. The loss of McMillan and Oragwu reverberates deeply within their community, leaving behind a void that is difficult to comprehend. Furthermore, cornerback Jeffrey Lewis, another teammate, is grappling with injuries sustained in the accident, facing a challenging road to recovery as he endeavors to rebuild his life amidst the aftermath of the tragedy.
Former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden among 6 dead after car accident in Houston https://t.co/3Hc7pKxbu2 [via @YahooNews] pic.twitter.com/g3hIwi4f7F
— Ńasser 1️⃣ Million Tweets 🐦 (@nasser_mo3gza) November 11, 2023
The University of Houston community expressed profound sadness over the loss of Hayden, McMillan, and Oragwu, extending condolences to their families and friends. The university highlighted the impact the three individuals had on both the football program and the broader community, emphasizing their resilience and camaraderie.
Despite facing adversity, including a life-threatening injury to his heart during his college career, Hayden was selected in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders. Over the course of his eight-season NFL career, Hayden also played for the Detroit Lions, Washington, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, leaving behind a legacy marked by his perseverance and dedication to the game.
Hayden’s contributions on the field, including 4.5 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 46 pass breakups, reflect his talent and commitment to excellence. Beyond his athletic achievements, Hayden will be remembered for his impact on those around him and the indelible mark he left on the football community.
As investigations into the accident continue, the loss of Hayden and his fellow teammates serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The football world mourns the passing of Hayden and honors his memory, celebrating his legacy and the lasting impact he had on the game.
Sarah’s View:
The tragic loss of former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden, along with five others, in a car accident in Houston has left the football community reeling. Hayden, just 33, was among those pronounced dead at the scene, along with former University of Houston teammates Zach McMillan and Ralph Oragwu. Another teammate, Jeffrey Lewis, is recovering from injuries. The accident, caused by a Chrysler running a red light, has sparked profound sadness in the University of Houston community, highlighting the trio’s impact on the football program. Hayden’s resilience, showcased by overcoming a life-threatening college injury, and his NFL career underscore his dedication to the game. As investigations continue, Hayden’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment.