Former NFL linebacker Ronald Powell has died at the age of 32, leaving behind his two beloved kids.
The NFL Player’s Association broke the sad news through a statement on its NFLPA Former Players’ X account, but they did not disclose a cause of his death.
“Today we mourn the loss of Ronald Powell — a father, a brother, and a son who was loved and cherished by so many. We send comfort to all those who knew Ronald”, they said in a statement.
Powell, drafted in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL draft by the New Orleans Saints, showcased his skills on the field during his rookie season. Unfortunately, injuries led him to be placed on the reserve list, ultimately resulting in his release from the team.
Despite setbacks, Powell continued to play on various practice squads across the league, culminating in his last stint with the Alliance of American Football League’s Orlando Apollos in 2019.
Before his professional career, he was a highly regarded recruit for the Florida Gators, holding the No. 1 rank in the class of 2010. However, two knee surgeries cost him a full season in 2012 and made a lasting impact during his college career.
The news of Powell’s passing reverberated across the football world, prompting tributes from his alma mater, the Florida Gators.
“We’re very saddened to learn about the passing of former Gators player Ronald Powell,” the University wrote on X. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Among those expressing grief was his former Saints teammate Junior Galette, who remembered Powell as an “EXCELLENT FATHER Respected Brother and a Loving Son.”
Ronald Powell welcomed his first child, Ronald N.M Powell, on December 25, 2018, followed by the arrival of his daughter, Romy Mehaiah Powell, on March 23, 2020.
