Utah State football player drowned in cliff jumping accident

LOGAN, Utah – Tragedy struck the Utah State football community when promising cornerback Andre Seldon Jr. was found dead of an apparent drowning last Saturday. The 22-year-old athlete’s untimely death casts a dark shadow over the program and leaves friends and teammates in mourning.

Seldon’s trip ended at Porcupine Reservoir, about 40 minutes from Utah State’s campus. According to the Cache County Sheriff’s Office, officers were dispatched at 2:20 p.m. Saturday after receiving reports of a possible drowning accident. Eyewitnesses said Seldon jumped off a cliff but did not return to the surface, sparking an extensive search.

Much to the dismay of his acquaintances, Seldon’s body was found by the Utah Department of Public Safety dive team at around 9:05 p.m. that same evening. Preliminary investigations indicated that it was a tragic accident, with authorities citing consistent witness accounts.

Looking back, Seldon had joined the Utah State football program just a few months earlier after transferring from New Mexico State University, where he played two seasons under Utah State interim coach Nate Dreiling. “Our football program is deeply saddened to have to deal with the loss of one of our members,” Dreiling lamented. “Having previously had a relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you that he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we mourn with them this terrible loss.”

The grief was felt beyond the football field. Utah State athletic director Dianne Sabau expressed her deep sadness over the loss. “Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated by the sudden passing of Andre Seldon Jr.,” she said. “We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates and everyone who loved Andre.”

As an athlete, Seldon was considered a rising star. Originally from Belleville, Michigan, he began his college career at the University of Michigan before making a name for himself at New Mexico State, where he not only played, but was also a team captain. His performance on the field was remarkable; last season, he appeared in 15 games and recorded 36 tackles, seven pass defenses, and one interception.

Andre Seldon was not only an athlete, but also a well-rounded person who made an impression on those around him. During a commitment ceremony before transferring to Utah State University, he expressed his dream of making an impact on and off the field.

In the wake of the tragedy, the football community has come together to support one another. Utah State University is actively providing emotional and mental support to its student-athletes and staff following this incident. Initiatives have also been launched to create safe spaces for those grieving, underscoring the close bonds within the athletic department.

Condolences poured in from all corners of college football. Former mentors and teammates posted messages of support and sadness on social media, sharing stories and memories of Seldon’s kindness and unwavering devotion to his sport. New Mexico State also released a heartfelt tribute, saying, “The Aggie community is devastated to hear the news of the passing of Andre Seldon Jr. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

In a world where the unexpected lurks around every corner, Seldon’s death is a haunting reminder of the fragility of life. His journey, though brief, left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched. He carried with him the dream of playing college football at the highest level, a goal that now remains unfulfilled.

Looking to the future, his friends and family plan to honor his memory and legacy in a tangible way by establishing a scholarship fund in his name to ensure future Utah State student-athletes can pursue their dreams while keeping Seldon’s spirit alive.

Nate Dreiling put it well: “We mourn the loss of Andre, but also celebrate the moments we had. He was a shining light and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.”