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Former NFL player DJ Hayden has tragically passed away at the age of 33 in a car crash in Houston. The incident occurred early Saturday morning when a driver ran a red light at the intersection of Fannin Street and Pierce Street.
DJ Hayden, the 12th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders, played four seasons with the team before moving on to the Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Washington Football Team.
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The Oakland Raiders released a statement mourning the loss of Hayden, praising his courage, perseverance, and dedication to his teammates. During his nine-year career, Hayden achieved four interceptions, 46 passes defensed, 4.5 sacks, and 328 total tackles. Prior to his NFL career, he played college football for the University of Houston, where he survived a near-fatal heart injury during practice in 2012.
The University of Houston expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hayden, along with two other former football student-athletes, Zachary McMillian and Ralph Oragwu. They extended condolences to the families and friends, highlighting the impact these individuals had on their communities and the lasting legacies they leave behind. The university also mentioned Jeffery Lewis, expressing thoughts and prayers for his recovery.