Former Clemson University football star Diondre Overton has tragically passed away at the age of 26. Clemson announced the heartbreaking news on Saturday, September 7, sharing the loss of their former wide receiver with the football community.
In a statement posted on social media, Clemson Football expressed their grief: “Clemson Football and the entire Clemson Family mourns the passing of Clemson alumnus Diondre Overton. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.” The university created a memorial at Overton’s plaque on the Tiger Walk outside of Memorial Stadium, a place where fans and friends have been paying their respects.
According to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, Overton was fatally shot in the early hours of September 7 in Greensboro, North Carolina, his hometown. Deputies responded to a noise disturbance around 2:30 a.m. at a residence on Spring Mill Road. While en route, they received information that a shooting had occurred. Upon arrival, they found Overton, who had been shot and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have confirmed that the incident is an active homicide investigation.
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Overton was a standout player for Clemson from 2016 to 2019, during which the Tigers won two national championships. As a senior, he was voted team captain, a testament to his leadership and influence on and off the field. Over the course of his college career, he recorded 52 receptions for 777 yards and seven touchdowns, playing in 51 games with five starts. One of his career highlights came during his senior season when he was awarded the prestigious Leather Helmet Award as the Most Valuable Player in Clemson’s game against Boston College, where he recorded 119 yards and three touchdowns.
In addition to his accomplishments on the field, Overton earned a degree in sports communication from Clemson in 2019.
Following his college career, he pursued professional football, signing with the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger Cats and later joining the Vienna Vikings of the European Football League. In 2022, Overton was drafted by the Philadelphia Stars in the USFL and played two seasons with the team. Most recently, he had been selected to play for the Memphis Showboats in the United Football League.
Tributes to Overton poured in from his former Clemson teammates and the wider football community. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, a former Clemson teammate, shared his grief on Instagram, writing, “Brotha I miss you already man. I love you 5L….I’m hurting bad bout this right now. Rest Easy Big Play.”
Amari Rodgers, another Clemson alum, took to social media to express his sorrow: “Life ain’t fair man. Please tell your loved ones you love them cause you truly never know. Long live Dre.”
Clemson alum Xavier Thomas, now with the Arizona Cardinals, also honored his friend and teammate, posting, “BIGPLAYDRE .. I love you bro. Fly High Twin??.”
The Clemson community, Overton’s family, and friends are left mourning a young man who made a significant impact both on the field and in their hearts. His legacy as a talented player and cherished teammate will not be forgotten.
