Utah State player Andre Seldon Jr. dies in apparent cliff-diving accident

Utah State cornerback Andre Seldon Jr. died in an apparent cliff-diving accident, the school announced on Saturday.

The school revealed that Seldon’s body was located at 9:05 p.m. MT by the Utah Department of Public Safety’s dive team after reports of a man diving off cliffs at the Porcupine Reservoir and never resurfaced.

“Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated over the sudden death of Andre Seldon Jr.,” athletic director Diana Sabau said in a statement released by the school. “We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who loved Andre.”

The Utah State University community is mourning the death of football student-athlete Andre Seldon Jr.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/cIScmcewp5

— USU Football (@USUFootball) July 21, 2024

Seldon transferred into the program earlier this offseason after spending two seasons with the New Mexico State Aggies. The Belleville, MI native originally committed to Michigan out of high school, but never played in a game for his home state Wolverines during two years in Ann Arbor.

After he transferred into the New Mexico State program, he was an instant-impact performer for the Aggies, totaling 98 total tackles including 11 passes defended, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and a pick-six. This past season he logged a career-high 53 tackles.

Seldon was gearing up for his fifth season of college football this summer, and was expected to be a strong performer for Utah State in 2024 based on his track record and a built-in relationship with Utah State’s current interim football coach.

“Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own,” said Utah State interim head coach and defensive coordinator Nate Dreiling. “Having had a previous relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we grieve with them over this tremendous loss.”

Utah State is working to ensure both staff and student-athletes have the emotional and mental support as they grieve Seldon’s dudden death. According to the announcement from the university, staudent affected by the death can seek support from Utah State’s CARE office, which offers counseling and psychological services.

The Aggies are set to begin the 2024 college football season in just under six weeks when they host Robert Morris at Maverik Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 31. It remains to be seen how Utah State, New Mexico State or Michigan will honor Seldon’s life throughout the 2024 regular season.