In devastating news from the NFL world, former Raiders first-round pick D.J. Hayden was tragically killed in a car crash in downtown Houston. The incident occurred around 2 am on Fannin Street near the Gulf Freeway, when a vehicle ran a red light, resulting in a collision that claimed the lives of Hayden and five others. Hayden was only 33 years old.

Hayden’s career in the NFL began when he was selected by the Oakland Raiders as the 12th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. He spent four years with the Raiders before moving on to play for the Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars. Most recently, he was a member of the Washington Football Team‘s practice squad in 2021.

The news of Hayden’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL community. Many fans and fellow players have taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of Hayden. One fan tweeted, “Heartbreaking news about D.J. Hayden. He was a talented player and an even better person. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Hayden was not alone at the time of the crash. He was reportedly with three other former Houston Cougars, who were also victims of the accident. According to a report from Barstool Coogs, they were hit by a drunk driver. It is believed that they were in town for Houston’s game against the Cincinnati Bearcats.

Houston police is investigating

The Houston Police Department is still investigating a crash that occurred at the intersection of Fannin and Pierce streets. The crash site, located just north of where Fannin goes under Interstate 45, was still blocked off and being cleaned up on Saturday afternoon. According to a Houston police spokeswoman, the department does not have any video footage of the crash and is still gathering information.

The medical examiner is expected to release more information about the crash soon. In the meantime, a Houston Public Works employee at the scene mentioned that crews were cleaning up fluids that were spilled by the vehicles involved in the crash.

After undergoing surgery less than a week ago, Hayden was released from the hospital. However, doctors informed him that he would need several months to recover and that it would be at least a year, if ever, before he could consider continuing his playing career.

The news of Hayden’s involvement in the recent crash has shocked many, especially considering his previous near-fatal injury. Fans and supporters are hoping for a swift recovery and are sending their thoughts and prayers to him during this difficult time.