Devonta Lee, a former college football star for the LSU Tigers and Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, has sadly passed away at the age of 27.
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"Lee was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer, after getting checked out for severe back pain during the 2022 season ... and kickstarted treatment, which included two surgeries and several weeks of chemotherapy and radiation," TMZ reported.
Lee began his football career at Amite High School. He was part of the team's state championship victory in 2018, ensuring he was a top recruit in his state. Lee committed to the LSU Tigers, playing three seasons for the team, before his cancer diagnosis.
Following his treatments, Lee was given the all-clear, allowing him to return to football. That's when he joined the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, spending a season with the team.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Devonta Lee, a former Bulldog wide receiver," the Bulldogs said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and former teammates during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a member of the Bulldog family."
The Tigers also released a statement on their former star's passing.
"The LSU Football family mourns the loss of former Tiger, Devonta Lee," the statement read. "Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates."
Currently, no information regarding the cause of death has been made public.
Devonta Lee Put up Some Good Numbers During His Collegiate Career
During his rookie season with LSU, Lee played in 13 games as a wide receiver. He secured two receptions, totalling 27 yards. The Tigers won the NFF MacArthur Bowl Championship Trophy that season, ensuring Lee had a winning start to his career at the Division 1 level.
In his sophomore season, Lee was moved to linebacker, per Sports Reference. He played in 8 games that season. As a junior, Lee moved back into a wide receiver role, playing 13 games and securing 9 receptions for a total of 85 yards. He ended the season with one touchdown.
When arriving at Louisiana Tech, Lee played in two games, catching twice for a total of 17 yards.
There are no details about what he chose to do in life after football. Furthermore, no information has been released regarding his impending funeral, as those details are likely to remain private.
