Former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden was tragically killed in a car accident in Houston, along with five other people, according to the Houston Police Department. Hayden, 33, was among those pronounced dead at the scene of the tragedy.
The accident occurred at 2 a.m. and involved two vehicles: a Chrysler 300 and an Acura SUV. The Chrysler was deemed to be at fault for running a red light at excessive speeds. Four people were pronounced dead on the site, while four others were taken to a local hospital. Unfortunately, two of those transferred died from their injuries.
Tragically, the list of casualties from the disaster includes not just Hayden’s former University of Houston teammates but also people who had strong friendships with him both on and off the field. The tragic incident ended the careers of offensive lineman Ralph Oragwu and cornerback Zach McMillan, both of whom were among them. The deaths of McMillan and Oragwu resound powerfully throughout their community, leaving a gap that is impossible to fill. Furthermore, another teammate, cornerback Jeffrey Lewis, is dealing with injuries from the accident and has a difficult road to recovery as he works to rebuild his life in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The University of Houston community expressed deep regret over the deaths of Hayden, McMillan, and Oragwu and offered condolences to their families and friends. The institution emphasized the three individuals’ contributions to both the football program and the larger community, as well as their perseverance and togetherness.
Despite overcoming adversity, including a life-threatening heart injury during his college career, Hayden was taken in the first round of the 2013 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders. Hayden spent eight seasons in the NFL, playing for the Detroit Lions, Washington, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, leaving a legacy of resilience and dedication to the game.
Hayden’s on-field achievements, which include 4.5 sacks, 4 interceptions, and 46 pass breakups, demonstrate his ability and dedication to excellence. Aside from his physical exploits, Hayden will be remembered for his influence on people around him and the lasting impression he left on the football community.
As investigations into the accident continue, the deaths of Hayden and his teammates serve as a painful reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the significance of cherishing every moment. The football world mourns Hayden’s death and respects his memory, recognizing his legacy and the long-lasting impact he made on the game.
Sarah’s Perspective:
The football community is in shock following the tragic car accident in Houston that claimed the lives of former NFL cornerback D.J. Hayden and five others. At just 33 years old, Hayden was one of the individuals who tragically lost their lives at the scene, along with his former University of Houston teammates Zach McMillan and Ralph Oragwu. Another teammate, Jeffrey Lewis, is currently recovering from injuries sustained in the accident. This devastating incident, caused by a Chrysler running a red light, has deeply affected the University of Houston community and has shed light on the profound impact that these three individuals had on the football program. Hayden’s unwavering resilience, demonstrated by his ability to overcome a life-threatening injury during college and go on to have a successful NFL career, is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the game. As investigations into the accident continue, the legacy of D.J. Hayden serves as a poignant reminder to cherish every moment.
