A former college football player has died from a “sudden” accident at just 25 years of age.
Jelani Newman, a former college football player at San Jose State University, passed away due to a “sudden” motorcycle accident.
The former California college football player was confirmed to have died from injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash.
“Jelani was smart, kind, funny, brave, and ambitious, and those who knew him will remember the warmth, strength, and bright spirit he brought into their lives,” his friend Domenica Civitano shared on a GoFundMe page set up for Newman’s family. “He was the kind of person who could make people laugh, show up with compassion, and leave a lasting impression through both his character and determination.”
The money generated from the GoFundMe fundraiser will go to Newman’s family.
“The funds raised will help support Jelani’s loved ones as they honor his life with a memorial and give him a proper burial,” Civitano wrote. “More than anything, this fundraiser is meant to help ensure that Jelani is laid to rest peacefully and with the dignity he deserves. During this painful time, any support can help ease some of the burden on the family and allow them to focus on mourning, remembering Jelani, and surrounding one another with love.”
Newman played on the offensive line at San Jose State from 2018 to 2022. In high school in Arizona, he was a two-time Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) first-team All-Region 4A selection.
The former college football player was a business administration major who had goals to become a “general manager of a professional sports franchise.”
“Our hearts are with the Newman Family during this time. Forever in our hearts #72,” the school announced in a statement this week.
May he rest in peace. Our thoughts are with his family.
