The University of Cincinnati community is mourning the unexpected loss of freshman football player Jeremiah Kelly, who passed away early Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at his residence. He was 18 years old. The university’s athletic department confirmed the heartbreaking news, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. According to a GoFundMe page created by a family friend, Kelly reportedly died in his sleep.

Written by

The University of Cincinnati community is mourning the unexpected loss of freshman football player Jeremiah Kelly, who passed away early Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at his residence. He was 18 years old. The university’s athletic department confirmed the heartbreaking news, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. According to a GoFundMe page created by a family friend, Kelly reportedly died in his sleep.

Jeremiah, a 6-foot-3, 320-pound offensive lineman from Avon, Ohio, had recently joined the Bearcats as an early enrollee and was participating in spring practice. During his senior year at Avon High School, he played a pivotal role in leading the Eagles to a perfect 16-0 season and the school’s first state championship in 2024. He earned first-team all-conference and all-district honors and was named the Southwestern Conference Lineman of the Year.

Head coach Scott Satterfield expressed his sorrow, stating, “The Bearcats football family is heartbroken by the sudden loss of this outstanding young man. In the short time Jeremiah has spent with our team, he has made a real impact, both on the field and in our locker room.

Athletic director John Cunningham added, “We’ve suffered a heartbreaking loss today. All of us at UC send our … , and we will do everything that …

The loss of Jeremiah Kelly has deeply affected both the University of Cincinnati and the Avon communities. Avon City Schools Superintendent Billy Hodge informed families and staff in a letter, stating, “It is with great sadness that we share with you the news of the death of an Avon student, Jeremiah Kelly. As we know from past tragedies, no words can console or explain what the student’s family and our Eagles must be experiencing.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the Kelly family during this difficult time. As of now, it has raised nearly $20,000 of its $30,000 goal.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeremiah’s family, friends, teammates, and all who knew him. His legacy as a dedicated athlete and cherished member of the community will not be forgotten.