Jessie Lemonier, a former linebacker for the Detroit Lions, died unexpectedly on Thursday, the organization confirmed.
Lemonier was 25 years old.
The Lions tweeted, “We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit Lion Jessie Lemonier.”
“Jessie was a model teammate and wonderful young man who is gone far too soon.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 26, 2023
In 2020, the Hialeah, Florida native, age 25, was signed as an undrafted rookie free agency by the Los Angeles Chargers. This season, he participated in six games and recorded two tackles and two quarterback hits.
In his second season with the Lions, Lemonier shown some indications of development.
In 2021, he started two games and appeared in seven for Detroit, recording 1.5 sacks, 15 total tackles, and three quarterback hits.
Lemonier, French for SACKED!#GBvsDET | 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/WJKDAUzfCq
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 9, 2022
Last season, he signed with the Arizona Cardinals but was released during training camp.
Lemonier, ever the football player, refused to allow this to be the end of his career.
In November, the athletic linebacker was picked by the XFL before joining the USFL’s Houston Gamblers. Prior to the beginning of the USFL season, Lemonier was traded to the Birmingham Stallions.
In just two years at Liberty University, Lemonier amassed a remarkable 20.5 sacks and three forced fumbles.
ESPN stated that Lemonier and his girlfriend were expecting a kid, which makes his death even more tragic.
Unsurprisingly, social media was flooded with condolences and affection for Lemonier.
Breiden Fehoko, a former teammate and current Charger, reminisced about joining the league alongside him.
My brother man. 💔💔 We came in to the league together had to battle through everything rookie year to get where we are. You were always filled with life bro. I LOVE YOU BRO! Please check up on your people. PLEASE pic.twitter.com/v4eD1qAjil
— Fehoko Show (@breidenfehoko4) January 26, 2023
More on this story via The Western Journal:
Liberty University also posted the news to its site, thanking Lemonier for helping take the school to the highest level of college football.
“Lemonier helped Liberty make the transition from the FCS to the FBS level during his two seasons with the Flames (2018-19),” it said. CONTINUE READING…