Stetson Bennett emotional as he talks about Devin Willock, Chandler LeCroy
Georgia players and staffers are still reeling after losing a pair of beloved members of the program just eight days ago. Junior offensive guard Devin Willock and recruiting support staffer Chandler LeCroy lost their lives in a single-car accident in the early-morning hours of Sunday, January 15. Stetson Bennett, who appeared on a Zoom conference Monday, was emotional when he was asked about their deaths.
“They were both special people,” Bennett said after a long pause, presumably to collect himself. “I don’t know. It was tough to swallow. They’ll always be with us and we won’t ever forget them.”
Bennett’s voice was beginning to break at the end. UGA players, staffers, and loved ones had a private celebration of Willock’s life on Saturday. There will be another service in Willock’s New Jersey hometown. LeCroy’s service was last week.
Bennett was on that Zoom conference because he won the 2022 Manning Award as the nation’s top quarterback. The Bulldogs celebrated their second National Championship in as many seasons on January 15 roughly 12 hours later, two of those celebrating had passed away.
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“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy,” Smart said. “Devin was an outstanding young man in every way. He was always smiling, was a great teammate and a joy to coach. Chandler was a valuable member of our football staff and brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day. We grieve with their families for this tragic loss and will support them in every way possible.”
The accident involved two other passengers, both of whom survived. Warren McClendon was in the car and sustained minor injuries. The other passenger sustained serious injuries and is currently under medical care. McClendon, who is appearing in the upcoming Reese’s Senior Bowl, has elected to wear No. 77 in honor of Willock.
