Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
Gridiron Greats Lost: Remembering Football Stars Who Died in 2025
The football community is reflecting on the lives of several notable figures who passed away in 2025, including esteemed athletes from both the NFL and collegiate football ranks. Fans were particularly saddened by the sudden passing of Kyren Lacy, a former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver. Lacy, a highly touted prospect for the 2025 NFL draft, tragically died on April 13.
Lacy’s family verified his death with WAFB-TV, a local news station, and the LSU Athletic Department also released a statement confirming the news. Initial reports indicated his death occurred in the Houston metropolitan area of Texas. He was 24 years old. During his time at LSU, Lacy excelled, leading the team in touchdowns the previous season and subsequently declaring for the 2025 NFL draft. By December of 2024, he was recognized as the No. 6 wide receiver prospect in his draft class.
Sadly, Lacy’s passing was one of several losses experienced by the football world in 2025. This article commemorates other football stars and figures who have died this year.
Todric McGee
- Missouri State University safety.
- Passed away in April 2025 at the age of 21.
- Circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation, with a possible “self-inflicted gunshot wound” reported by authorities.
- The Missouri State University Athletics Department issued a statement expressing condolences to his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.
Kyren Lacy
- Former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver.
- Considered a promising NFL draft selection.
- Death confirmed on April 13, 2025.
- Declared for the NFL Draft after a successful college career at LSU.
- Prior to his death, Lacy faced legal charges including negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless driving but maintained his innocence.
Howard Twilley
- Former Miami Dolphins wide receiver and key member of the undefeated 1972 team.
- Distinguished former receiver for Tulsa for three seasons.
- Died on February 5, 2025, at the age of 81.
- Following his football career, Twilley established a chain of sporting goods stores and coached at Metro Christian Academy in Tulsa.
Dick Jauron
- Veteran NFL player and coach.
- Head Coach of the Chicago Bears when the team achieved a playoff victory in 2001.
- Passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 74 after a short illness.
- Jauron’s NFL career spanned 26 seasons as a player and 28 seasons as a coach.
Virginia Halas McCaskey
- Principal owner of the Chicago Bears.
- Daughter of Pro Football Hall of Fame player George Halas.
- Served as the Bears’ primary owner from 1983 until her death.
- Died on February 6, 2025, at the age of 102.
- During her ownership, the Bears secured five consecutive NFC Central Championships.