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Former LSU wide receiver Devonta Lee, who was a member of the 2019 national championship team, has died, his former team confirmed Thursday. He was 26 years old.
The circumstances surrounding Lee’s death were not immediately known. Louisiana Tech University, another football program he played for, also confirmed his death.
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 December 28, 2024. (Danny Wild/Imagn Images)
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Devonta Lee, a former Bulldogs wide receiver,” read their statement on X. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and former teammates during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a member of the Bulldog family.”
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“The LSU Football family mourns the loss of former Tiger, Devonta Lee,” LSU added in another message. “Our thoughts are with 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 then underwent several surgeries and treatments 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 October 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] he was a good child [and would] do anything for anyone,” she told the outlet. “He loved football [and] he gave his all in everything he did. He trained every day [and was] a very hard and dedicated player [who] I never gave up football. [I will miss] my son.”
LSU Tigers wide receiver Devonta Lee (16) is tackled by Central Michigan Chippewas defensive lineman Thomas Incoom (9) during the first half at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on September 18, 2021. (Stephen Lew/USA TODAY Sports)
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Lee, a Louisiana native, appeared in 37 games over five college football seasons. He played three seasons at LSU where he totaled nine receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown. In two seasons with the Bulldogs, he totaled two catches for 17 yards in three games.
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