Former Raiders 1st-round pick killed in car crash
D.J. Hayden, a 2013 first-round pick of the Raiders out of the University of Houston, was killed early Saturday in a car crash in Houston.
He was 33.
Hayden was one of six people who were killed in the crash, along with former Houston defensive back Zach McMillian and offensive lineman Ralph Oragwu. Former Houston defensive back Jeffery Lewis was injured.
“The Raiders Family is mourning the tragic loss of former cornerback D.J. Hayden,” the team said in a statement.
“The Raiders’ first-round draft pick out of the University of Houston in 2013, D.J. overcame a heart injury sustained in a college practice to play nine years in the NFL, including his first four with the Silver and Black. 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.”
The Houston Chronicle reported that Hayden and his former teammates were in an Acura SUV when a Chrysler 300, which was traveling at a high speed, ran a red light and hit their vehicle.
Hayden was selected 12th overall in the 2013 draft. During his time with the Raiders, he played 45 games, including 25 starts, and had three interceptions and 179 tackles.
Hayden also played for the Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars and Washington.
In a statement, the University of Houston mourned the loss of the former players.
“The entire University of Houston community is heartbroken over the tragic passing of former Football student-athletes D.J. Hayden, Zachary McMillian and Ralph Oragwu earlier today, and our thoughts and prayers remain with Jeffery Lewis in his recovery ahead,” the statement read.
“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. While their combined talents provided Houston Football some of its most unforgettable moments, their unique legacies will best be remembered for the way they loved their teammates, supported their communities and defied the odds.”
Contact Vincent Bonsignore at vbonsignore@reviewjournal.com. Follow @VinnyBonsignore on X.
