The state of Utah announced on Saturday night Football player Andre Seldon Jr. has died. Witnesses saw him jumping off a cliff into a nearby reservoir, but alerted authorities when he failed to surface. A search was underway when the Utah Department of Public Safety dive team found his body at 9:05 p.m. MT.
Seldon, a cornerback, was beginning his first season at Utah State as a fifth-year senior. He had previously played at New Mexico State, where he was a team captain. He also worked under Nate Dreiling, who at the time was New Mexico State’s defensive coordinator but is currently Utah State’s interim head coach and defensive coordinator.
“Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own,” Dreiling said in a school statement. “Having had a prior relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you that he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we mourn with them this tremendous loss.”
On Sunday morning, Dreiling posted more about his former player on X.
I’m not sure I’ve ever had a conversation with Andre that didn’t end with me smiling. One of the best people I’ve ever been around. He meant a lot to a lot of people and always made you feel better when you were around him. He was a bright light in this world with his smile. Love you, buddy. photo.twitter.com/Gaz7wxJKp9
– Nate Dreiling (@CoachNDreiling) July 21, 2024
Many others followed suit, remembering Seldon as cheerful, kind and always willing to give his time to the media.
Andre Seldon played at NM State in 2022 and 2023. He was adored by literally everyone: teammates, coaches, fans, and the media. I haven’t covered many people that I think as highly of as I do of Andre. He’s a great player, a very insightful and genuine person. I will miss him. Rest in peace. https://t.co/LN66J9gKNC
— Colin Deaver (@ColinDeaverTV) July 21, 2024
One of the best people I have ever had the privilege of being around. I am absolutely devastated to hear this. I am praying for the Seldons. https://t.co/402WWwULlL
—Bryce Bearss (@BearssBryce) July 21, 2024
I will never forget Andre Seldon Jr.
One of the best athletes and great human beings I have had the opportunity to cover.
This is absolutely heartbreaking. Thoughts and prayers for his family and friends. https://t.co/co0E7puvOM
— Sam Guzman (@SamGuzmanTV) July 21, 2024
Rest in love bro. God watch over my little brother up there. This season is for you, 8! You are forever legendary, Dre image.twitter.com/spI8LujTUs
— Ron Tiavaasue (@AhlamRon) July 21, 2024
“You have to be different, you have to be visible.”
Truly heartbreaking to hear about the passing of Andre Seldon Jr.
Andre was truly one of the most charming players I have ever covered and it was impossible not to pay attention to him. He was always willing to chat with us, to have a conversation… https://t.co/9wMm9l9wIM image.twitter.com/FrlEOocW5E
— Rachel Phillips (@rachphillipstv) July 21, 2024
Sometimes you find yourself rooting for the athletes you cover. Seldon was a regular interviewer for me, a clear leader on the team during his brief time at NMSU. I always enjoyed my interactions with him and his father…my condolences to the family of Andre Seldon
—Jason Groves (@JPGrowes) July 21, 2024
Man… blast off to paradise Mamba, bro 4L. Best teammate and friend you could ever ask for. Thanks for everything, buddy. I miss you.
I love you #LLD https://t.co/6DuMypei7X
— Dylan Early (@11andlord) July 21, 2024
Seldon, whose age was not disclosed by the university, was a standout star at Belleville High School in Belleville, Michigan. After graduating, he went to Michigan, where he played for two years before transferring to New Mexico State in 2022.
