Former NFL player Ronald Powell dies aged 32

Former NFL linebacker Ronald Powell has died at the age of 32.

Powell was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round of the 2014 draft and made 14 appearances for them during his rookie season.

He also had brief stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks and Chicago Bears, but never played in the NFL again after leaving New Orleans.

His former college football teammate announced the news on social media Tuesday. The cause of death remains unclear.

A statement read: ‘I love you forever until we meet again. An EXCELLENT FATHER. Respected brother and a loving son.”

Former New Orleans Saints linebacker Ronald Powell has died at the age of 32

“I regret to share with the rest of the world that Ronald Powell made the transition earlier today. REST IN POWER RONALD POWELL.”

“Today we mourn the loss of Ronald Powell – a father, a brother and a son who was loved and cherished by so many,” the NFLPA Former Players Fraternity said..

‘We send comfort to everyone who knew Ronald. (Rest in peace).’

Powell signed with the Florida Gators as a five-star recruit out of high school and was the No. 1 prospect in the class of 2010 out of Rancho Verde High School in California.

Despite suffering a number of injuries in college, Powell was taken by the Saints and had a strong first season, but was released in September 2015.

After bouncing around the NFL practice squad rosters, Powell was signed by the Orlando Apollos of the former AAF in 2019.

But he was waived before the season even started and didn’t play a single game.

The Florida Gators football program posted their own tribute, writing, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Gators player Ronald Powell.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”

More to follow.