Former Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Jessie Lemonier passed away on Thursday at the age of 25, as confirmed by the Lions in a statement.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of former Detroit Lion Jessie Lemonier,” the Lions posted on Twitter. “Jessie was a great teammate and an exceptional young man who left us too soon. Our hearts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The Chargers also paid tribute, acknowledging that he was “gone too soon.” They expressed their condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with Jessie’s family, friends, and loved ones.”
The Lions did not disclose the cause of Lemonier’s death.
Originally from Hialeah, Florida, Lemonier played college football at Liberty University before entering the 2020 NFL Draft. He joined the Chargers as an undrafted free agent but was soon waived.
He was later signed to the Chargers’ practice squad and then promoted to the active roster, where he appeared in six games and recorded two tackles.
In the 2021 season, Lemonier played with the Lions, participating in seven games, starting two, and finishing with 15 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Last summer, Lemonier was with the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad and recorded a sack in a preseason game before being released. He was drafted by the XFL’s Arlington Renegades in November but signed with the Houston Gamblers in the USFL earlier this year, before being traded to the Birmingham Stallions.
His agent, Drew Smith, revealed that Lemonier was expecting a child with his girlfriend.