Jessie Lemonier, former Detroit Lions player, dies suddenly at age 25

The NFL and its fans across the globe today are mourning the sudden death of Jessie Lemonier, a young defensive player who had stints at the Lions, the Chargers and the Cardinals.

The former Detroit Lions linebacker died at just 25 years old, his team confirmed on its social media.

"We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of former Detroit Lion player Jessie Lemonier," the Lions' statement read.

Photo: Instagram - @detroitlionsnfl

"Jessie was a model teammate and a wonderful young man who is gone far too soon," the statement continues. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time."

No further details were given about the cause of Jessie Lemonier's premature death.

Drew Smith, the player's agent at DEC Management, confirmed on ESPN that Jessie Lemonier was expecting a baby with his girlfriend. Smith did not comment on the cause of his death either.

Jessie Lemonier signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as a free agent. He only played six games with the team in 2020.

The Los Angeles Chargers have also said farewell to the player. They wrote an emotional message on Instagram.

"Gone too soon," the message read. "Our hearts are with Jessie’s family, friends and loved ones." On the picture we see the player in the Chargers Jersey.

Photo: Instagram - @chargers

A teammate of his in the Los Angeles Chargers, Breiden Fehoko, has also said goodbye to Jessie Lemonier. He wrote a message on Instagram.

"My brother man. Rest easy... We came in to the league together, had to battle through everything rookie year to get where we are. You were always filled with life bro. I LOVE YOU BRO!" the defensive end of the Chargers wrote.

Photo: Instagram - @louisianimaaal_91

In September 2021, Jessie Lemonier arrived at the Detroit Lions where he played seven games. In two of them, he was a starter.

However, in May 2022, Jessie Lemonier was released by the Detroit Lions. He was signed by the Arizona Cardinals just 24 hours later.

He was part of the Cardinals' Practice Squad for several months, but in August 2022 they released him.

In his last months, Jessie Lemonier was selected by the Arlington Renegades in the 2023 XFL Draft, although he would end up signing with the USFL's Houston Gamblers on December 31, 2022.

At the time of his death, he was signed to the Birmingham Stallions, with whom he will no longer be able to debut.