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This narrative touches on sensitive topics, including suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, please reach out for support by contacting the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Last Thursday marked a poignant evening for Will Campbell, selected fourth overall in the NFL Draft. The New England Patriots chose the LSU offensive lineman to safeguard quarterback Drake Maye, and Campbell found it hard to contain his emotions during the momentous occasion.
In his heartfelt remarks, Campbell expressed his deep commitment to his new team. He stated, “It means everything to me. I’m gonna fight and die to protect them with everything I got.” These powerful words reflected his dedication to the sport and the responsibilities that come with it.
However, beneath this triumph lay a somber reality. Just days before the draft, Campbell’s former LSU teammate, Kyren Lacy, tragically lost his life due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
To honor Lacy’s memory, Campbell donned a pin emblazoned with Lacy’s jersey number, No. 2, on his lapel during the draft.
While speaking about Lacy, Campbell remembered him not only as an exceptional athlete but as a remarkable person. He shared, “Kyren is a special human being. I feel for his family. They’ve been through a lot lately. He’s got such a great family. He was not only a good football player. He was such a good teammate, a good son, a good older brother and just a good dude in general.”
Campbell continued, expressing heartfelt emotions about Lacy’s untimely death. “It’s just terrible, everything that’s happened. I’m sending many prayers to his family because he was gonna get his name called this weekend. Even though his name won’t be called, he’s going to walk across that stage. He’s here with us in spirit, and it was an honor to be a part of his journey.”
The tragic circumstances surrounding Lacy’s death are deeply troubling. Reports from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office indicate that deputies responded to a call regarding an argument involving Lacy, during which he discharged a firearm into the ground.
Authorities launched an extensive search for Lacy after he fled the scene. It was revealed that deputies attempted to apprehend him, but he led them on a prolonged vehicle chase that ended when he crashed his car in Spring.
After exiting the vehicle, Lacy was found with what was later identified as a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.
This unfortunate incident adds to Lacy’s troubled history. In January, he was under investigation in Louisiana for his involvement in a crash that led to the death of a 78-year-old man in December.
Lacy joined the LSU team in 2022 and showcased remarkable potential during his best season in 2024, amassing 58 catches for 866 yards and nine touchdowns.
The loss of Kyren Lacy resonates deeply within the sports community, reminding all of the importance of mental health awareness and support systems available for those in distress. The prevention of such tragedies starts with conversation and community support that fosters understanding.
In a world where athletic achievements shine brightly, stories like Kyren Lacy’s serve as vital reminders of the struggles many face. The conversation surrounding mental health needs to continue as sports figures and communities unite to provide support and healing for those affected.
Reporting contributed by Ryan Gaydos from Fox News and the Associated Press.
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