Dabo Swinney shares heartfelt message on Diondre Overton after heartbreaking death

Following the Clemson Tigers‘ win over the Appalachian State Mountaineers, head coach Dabo Swinney shared a heartfelt message on former team captain Diondre Overton, who tragically died. The news was announced on Saturday afternoon.

An emotional Swinney eulogized Overton, sharing how the news of his passing has impacted himself and Overton’s family. He also shared memories and thoughts about the tragic situation.

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“First of all, it’s been a long day with the news this morning on Diondre Overton,” Dabo Swinney said. “Took the wind out of my body this morning. Had an opportunity to speak with his dad — obviously, they’re hurting. It’s hard to process something like this. It’s so senseless. Just a beautiful, young life cut short at 26.”

Diondre Overton came to Clemson in 2016 and played four seasons and 51 games there. Over that time, he made 52 receptions for 777 yards and seven touchdowns. He’d be named a captain and help the Tigers tow in two national championships. He would go on to play professional football in several leagues, including most recently with the Memphis Showboats of the UFL.

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“Man, I love Diondre Overton. He’s one of the best teammates that we’ve had come through here. He was here five years, two-time national champion, voted captain by his teammates. Still remember him putting the leather helmet on with three touchdowns against Boston College. He truly was one of the sweetest, spirited kids that we’ve had come through here and, again, truly a great teammate,” Swinney said.

“My heart hurts and my prayers are with his family… Just at a loss for words. Had a chance to touch base with some of his teammates and everybody’s prayers are with them right now. I don’t know who did it, but it was pretty cool walking into the Tiger Walk, somebody put some flowers on his captain plaque — that was a pretty special thing to see walking in. So, whoever did that, I appreciate that.”

Throughout his career, Dabo Swinney has been open about his faith and in situations like this one, he returns to it.

“The good news is, I know where he is, he’s with the good Lord,” Swinney said. “He was actually baptized while he was here at Clemson, I’ve got a picture of that on my phone. So, a life cut way too short, but I do have peace in knowing where he’s at.”

Diondre Overton was shot and killed while attending a party in Greensboro. That shooting remains under investigation. He was 26 years old.