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Detroit Lions announce death of former NFL player Jessie Lemonier at 25

Stephen Samraby:Steve Samra•01/26/23•

SamraSource

Jessie Lemonier
(Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)

The Detroit Lions have announced the death of former linebacker Jessie Lemonier at 25.

On Thursday, the franchise took to Twitter to reveal the shocking and saddening news, offering their thoughts and prayers.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit Lion Jessie Lemonier,” wrote the Lions. “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.”

Jessie Lemonier played his college football at Liberty, where he was a huge part of their defense. After going undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft, Lemonier spent his first season with the Los Angeles Chargers before joining the Detroit Lions in 2021.

After spending some time with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, Lemonier was selected by the Arlington Renegades as part of the reboot for he XFL for 2023, but instead decided to take his talents to the USFL for their upcoming season. He originally signed with the Houston Gamblers, but was traded to the Birmingham Stallions.

No cause of death has been announced as of the writing of this article.

The thoughts and prayers of the football world as a whole are with Jessie Lemonier’s family, friends and the Detroit Lions organization.

Former Liberty HC Hugh Freeze on passing of former Flames LB Jessie Lemonier: ‘Heartbroken’

Moreover, former Liberty head coach turned Auburn leader Hugh Freeze was Jessie Lemonier’s coach at Liberty for a period of time. After hearing the devastating news, Freeze took to Twitter to react.

Of course, Freeze is feeling pain — “Heartbroken,” is how he put it.

“Heartbroken!!! Jesse was one of the most intense players and incredible teammates that I have ever coached,” tweeted Freeze. “Prayers for peace to his family.”

No doubt that Hugh Freeze and the rest of the Liberty Flames family is feeling the devastation of losing a good one far too soon.