Former Raider D.J. Hayden and two of his Ex-Houston Cougars teammates were killed in a collision that also claimed the lives of three others
Former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden was among six people killed in Houston on Saturday after a car sped through a red light and crashed into another vehicle. Hayden was just 33 years old at the time of his tragic passing.
Hayden was a standout at the University of Houston prior to entering the pro ranks, and among those killed alongside him in the collision were two of his former Cougars teammates, Zach McMillian and Ralph Oragwu.
The University of Houston also said former player Jeffery Lewis was injured but recovering.
“The entire University of Houston community is heartbroken over the tragic passing of former Football student-athletes D.J. Hayden, Zachary McMillian, and Ralph Oragwu earlier today, and our thoughts and prayers remain with Jeffery Lewis in his recovery ahead,” the University of Houston said in a statement Saturday.
“We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, as we collectively mourn the loss of three individuals who made an indelible impact on each life they touched. While their combined talents provided Houston Football some of its most unforgettable moments, their unique legacies will best be remembered for the way they loved their teammates, supported their communities, and defied the odds.”
D.J. Hayden was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the then-Los Angeles Raiders, the 12th pick overall. He would go on to play eight full seasons in the NFL for the Raiders, Lions, and Jaguars, before eventually retiring in 2021.
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