Former NFL first round pick D.J. Hayden, 33, killed in car crash

Former Oakland Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback, D.J. Hayden was killed when a car collided with the SUV Hayden was in. He was 33. 

Hayden plus five others died in the crash, including multiple teammates from Hayden’s time at the University of Houston.

Hayden’s vehicle was hit by another car that had run a red light. The SUV then struck a pedestrian following the collision.

The driver who caused the accident was also killed by the collision.

The Houston Police Department released a statement following the incident saying, “The at-fault driver of the Chrysler was pronounced deceased at the scene.  It is believed three persons in the Acura (the vehicle Hayden was in) were ejected.  Two of them died at the scene. The male pedestrian was also pronounced deceased.”

The HPD also confirmed they were going to continue investigating the cause of the accident.

Following the crash, four passengers were transported to a local hospital. Despite treatment, two were pronounced dead. The remaining two survived the accident, although one remains unconscious and in critical condition.

Currently, it is unknown who was driving the SUV, with HPD officers attempting to question the one conscious survivor.

Hayden’s teammates who died as a result of the crash were, Zachary McMillian and Ralph Oragwu, whilst Jeffery Lewis is one of the two survivors.

The University of Houston released a statement saying, “We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, as we collectively mourn the loss of three individuals who made an indelible impact on each life they touched… their unique legacies will best be remembered for the way they loved their teammates, supported their communities and defied the odds.”

Hayden was a first-round pick by the then-Oakland Raiders an spent four years at the organization. The team released a statement saying, “The Raiders Family is mourning the tragic loss of former cornerback D.J. Hayden.”

The Raiders’ statement continued, “D.J.'s courage, perseverance, and dedication to his teammates will be fondly remembered by everyone who knew him. The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with D.J.'s loved ones at this time.”

During Hayden’s time at the University of Houston, Hayden was involved in a near-fatal accident during a practice session when a teammate’s knee struck him in the chest. This caused Hayden’s inferior vena cava to tear in his heart, a diagnosis with a 95% fatality rate.

Hayden was able to overcome this injury and showcase his talents for the Cougars, earning the attention of the NFL.

Hayden’s talent and athletic ability were too much to resist for the Raiders who selected him with the 12th overall pick in the 2013 draft.

Hayden spent his first four years in Oakland before signing with the Detroit Lions for the 2017 season. He was able to find some success in Jacksonville, staying with the Jags for a three-year stint. Most recently he was a member of the Washington Commanders.