ALLEN PARK -- Former Detroit Lions defensive end Jessie Lemonier has died, according to the team. He was just 25 years old.
“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit Lion Jessie Lemonier,” the team said in a statement. “Jessie was a model teammate and wonderful young man who is gone far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Lemonier went undrafted out of Liberty in 2020, but caught on with the Los Angeles Chargers that season before signing with the Lions’ practice squad in 2021. He was promoted to the 53-man roster a month later and went on to play in seven games under first-year coach Dan Campbell. He had 1.5 sacks on 161 defensive snaps overall.
“He’s a guy that has this laid-back (vibe),” Lions linebacker coach Kelvin Sheppard once said. “I tell him he belongs on the beach because he has this laid-back demeanor to him. He needs to be pushed. As long as you push him, you hold him accountable, he answers that bell every time. I’m definitely impressed with his growth and development.”
After being waived last summer, Lemonier signed with the Arizona Cardinals but did not make it out of training camp. He signed with the Houston Gamblers for the upcoming USFL season, then was traded to the Birmingham Stallions.
Ad Choices