The Clemson football program is mourning the death of a former Tigers national champion on Sunday.
A former Clemson Tigers football player is dead at 26 years old. He was killed in a shooting.
Diondre Overton, a former Clemson Tigers wide receiver, was killed in a shooting in North Carolina. He was a 6-foot-5 wide receiver who signed with Clemson as a four-star recruit.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was understandably shattered.
“First of all, it’s been a long day with the news this morning on Diondre Overton,” Dabo Swinney said. “Took the wind out of my body this morning. Had an opportunity to speak with his dad — obviously, they’re hurting. It’s hard to process something like this. It’s so senseless. Just a beautiful, young life cut short at 26.”
Former Clemson wide receiver Amari Rodgers was among those devastated by the news.
“Life ain’t fair man!!! Please tell your loved ones you love them cause you truly never know Long Live Dre,” he wrote.
Life ain’t fair man!!! Please tell your loved ones you love them cause you truly never know 💔😭 Long Live Dre🕊️
— Amari Rodgers3️⃣ (@arodgers_3) September 7, 2024
Overton, a former Clemson Tigers team captain, had more than 700 receiving yards and seven touchdowns during his career, winning a national championship in 2018.
“Man, I love Diondre Overton. He’s one of the best teammates that we’ve had come through here. He was here five years, two-time national champion, voted captain by his teammates. Still remember him putting the leather helmet on with three touchdowns against Boston College. He truly was one of the sweetest, spirited kids that we’ve had come through here and, again, truly a great teammate,” Swinney said.
“My heart hurts and my prayers are with his family… Just at a loss for words. Had a chance to touch base with some of his teammates and everybody’s prayers are with them right now. I don’t know who did it, but it was pretty cool walking into the Tiger Walk, somebody put some flowers on his captain plaque — that was a pretty special thing to see walking in. So, whoever did that, I appreciate that.”
Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time.
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