Diondre Overton, a two-time national champion and former wide receiver for the Clemson Tigers, tragically passed away in the early hours of Saturday, September 7, 2024. The 26-year-old was a resident of Greensboro, North Carolina, his place of birth.

Deputies of the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina responded to a complaint about a loud gathering and noise disruption at 2:30 a.m. on the mentioned date. The disturbance was reported at 3205 Spring Mill Road in Greensboro. During their transit, they were informed of a shooting at the same location. Upon their arrival, they discovered Overton, who was declared dead at the scene despite the provision of emergency medical assistance.

The Sheriff’s Office has classified the incident as an active and ongoing homicide investigation. No individuals have been identified as suspects in the case thus far.

Overton was a Clemson University athlete from 2016 to 2019, and his contributions helped the Tigers secure two national championships in 2016 and 2018. Overton participated in 51 games throughout his collegiate career, making 52 catches for 777 yards and seven touchdowns. He was named a permanent team captain in his senior year and was recognized for his academic achievements, earning a spot on the All-ACC Academic team.

Dabo Swinney, the Clemson Tigers’ head coach, expressed deep sorrow and shock at Overton’s untimely passing. He noted the profound impact of the tragic news on him and lauded Overton’s character, specifically highlighting his kindness. Swinney expressed his personal grief over the loss.

Prior to the Tigers’ game against Appalachian State on Saturday, Swinney honored Overton by touching his captain’s plaque as he entered Memorial Stadium. The Tigers also recognized their late teammate with a moment of tribute, as two current players donning Overton’s number 14 led the team down the hill to honor him.

Tee Higgins, Overton’s former teammate and current wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, expressed his sorrow and reminiscences on Instagram. He wrote, “Brotha I miss you already man. I love you 5L….I’m hurting bad bout this right now. Rest Easy Big Play.” 

Overton’s college career was highlighted by numerous remarkable performances, including a noteworthy game against Boston College during his senior year. In this game, he achieved 119 yards and three touchdowns, earning him the Leather Helmet Award as the game’s Most Valuable Player and ACC Receiver of the Week recognition.

Upon his graduation from Clemson in 2019 with a degree in sports communication, Overton embarked on a professional football career. He played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Canadian Football League and the Vienna Vikings in the European Football League. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Stars of the USFL in 2022, where he played for two seasons. Overton had recently been chosen to play for the Memphis Showboats in the newly established UFL.

The football community and the Clemson family continue to grapple with the sudden loss of Overton as the investigation into his death progresses. Overton is fondly remembered for his significant contributions to the sport on the field and his positive demeanor off the field.