Tragic End for Rising Gridiron Star: Andre Seldon Jr. Lost in Shocking Incident

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Courtesy of Andre Seldon Jr./Instagram

Tragedy struck the Utah State University football team as cornerback Andre Seldon Jr. died in an apparent drowning incident at just 22 years old.

According to the Cache County Sheriff’s Office, Seldon’s body was recovered on the evening of Saturday, July 20, after he failed to resurface following a cliff dive at the Porcupine Reservoir, approximately 90 miles north of Salt Lake City.

The Sheriff’s Office investigation suggests that this was a tragic accident, with multiple witnesses corroborating the same information.

Seldon, who transferred to Utah State earlier this year after two seasons at New Mexico State, was remembered by the school after news of his death was announced.

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The Utah State University community is in mourning after the death of football student-athlete Andre Seldon Jr.,” the school’s official football account posted via X on Sunday, July 21. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”

Seldon followed coach Nate Dreiling to Utah State after playing under him at New Mexico State. After being named the team’s defensive coordinator earlier this year, Dreiling was also named Utah State’s interim head coach on July 2. 

Utah State Football Player Andre Seldon Jr Dies in Apparent Drowning
Sam Wasson/Getty Images

“Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own,” Dreiling, 33, said in a statement. “Having had a previous relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we grieve with them over this tremendous loss.”

Vanderbilt University and team consultant Jerry Kill also released a statement remembering Seldon. Kill, 62, was the head coach at New Mexico State during Seldon’s sophomore year in 2023.

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“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Andre. I will always love Andre like a son,” Kill said in a statement released by the school. “His smile lit up every room. His leadership was second to none. Every person that knew him gravitated towards him and his bright and contagious spirit.”

The statement continued, “His teammates and I will always cherish the memories we made during our unforgettable time together. My heartfelt condolences go out to every person that was inspired and loved by Andre.”

A native of Belleville, Michigan, Seldon spent two years at the University of Michigan before transferring to New Mexico State. 

“So deeply saddened by this news!” Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore shared via X on Sunday. “A great young man on and off the field! Praying for the Seldon family and here to support in anyway way possible! Gone way too soon!!”