Dwayne Hakins, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, has died. He was 24.
“I am devastated and at a loss for words with the unfortunate passing of Dwayne Haskins,” head coach Mike TomlinThe news was confirmed in a Twitter statement. “He quickly became a part of our Steelers family upon his arrival in Pittsburgh and was one of our hardest workers, both on the field and in the community.”
He continued: “Dwayne was a great teammate, but even more so a tremendous friend to so many. I am truly sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kalabrya, and his entire family during this difficult time.”
Dwayne Hakins Uncredited/AP/Shutterstock
Haskins, who joined Pittsburgh’s NFL team last year, was struck by a vehicle while crossing Interstate 595 in South Florida. (He was in Florida with his teammates. The Florida Highway Patrol told CBS News Miami that Haskins was walking on a “limited access facility for unknown reasons” amid oncoming traffic. He was declared dead at the scene.
The Ohio State University alum was a Washington Commanders first-round draft selection in 2019. He played seven games in his rookie year. Haskins was relieved from his contract in December 2020.
“I am absolutely heartbroken to hear the news of the passing of Dwayne Haskins Jr.,” Ron Rivera, head coach of the Commanders, wrote in a Saturday statement. “Dwayne was a talented young man who had a long life ahead of him. This is a sad time, and I am at a loss of words. I am sure I speak for the rest on behalf of the team when I say that he will be missed. Our entire team is sending our heartfelt condolences and thoughts and prayers to the Haskins family at this time.”
Haskins joined Steelers one month after he left the D.C. team. He had also signed a one year contract prior to his death.
“#Year3 ✅ Appreciate Pittsburgh for the great learning experience this year was,” Haskins previously wrote via Instagram in January. “Can’t wait to make the most of this next opportunity. All I needed was a chance 🙏 #HereWeGo.”
His wife, a New Jersey native, has survived him. He was born in Maryland. Kalabrya Haskins. The couple got married in March 2021. His parents also survive him. Dwayne H. Haskins Sr.And Tamara Haskins.
“I just wanted to prove to the coaching staff and my teammates how much I love football,” Dwayne previously told ESPN in June 2021 after being released from Washington. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be here and showing them that my mind is in the right place and I’m willing to work to be able to show my talents and be able to work and earn a spot here.”
