The college football community is mourning the loss of Devonta Lee, a former LSU and Louisiana Tech wide receiver whose journey from small-town Louisiana to the heights of championship football inspired countless teammates, coaches, and fans. Lee passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the age of 27, following a courageous battle with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Both LSU and Louisiana Tech confirmed his passing with heartfelt tributes on social media, honoring his memory and the indelible mark he left on their programs.
Born and raised in Fluker, Louisiana, Lee’s football story began at Amite High School, where he quickly emerged as a standout athlete. As a senior, he was nothing short of electric—scoring 22 touchdowns and notching seven interceptions, leading Amite to the 2A State Championship in 2018. He formed a dynamic wide receiver tandem with future Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith. Reflecting on his humble beginnings, Lee once shared, “I came from nothing. I came from a small town called Fluker. I grew up in a house with rats and roaches and stuff like that.”
Lee’s remarkable high school career made him a four-star recruit and the No. 6-ranked player in Louisiana in the 2019 recruiting class, according to Rivals. With offers from top schools, he chose to join the LSU Tigers, stepping into a wide receiver room brimming with future NFL talent, including Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase. Despite the fierce competition, Lee saw the field as a true freshman during LSU’s legendary 2019 campaign. He played in 13 games, recording two catches for 27 yards and contributing on special teams—logging 27 offensive snaps and 81 on special teams, including five in the national championship game against Clemson.
“Championship my first year, the SEC championship, the Peach Bowl. That was amazing,” Lee recalled of his freshman season. His time at LSU also included nine receptions for 85 yards and his only collegiate touchdown in 2021, bringing his total at LSU to 11 catches for 112 yards and one score. Coaches and teammates often praised his relentless work ethic. According to his mother, Lacresia Brown, “That’s all he liked to do from day one. From little on up he played football all his life. That’s all he liked to do. He always go to the gym. Seven days a week. He would get the key. He always had a key, and go workout. When no one else is working, he working.”
After three seasons in Baton Rouge, Lee transferred to Louisiana Tech in 2022, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. However, just months after his arrival, Lee began experiencing severe back pain during a Bulldogs practice. Doctors soon diagnosed him with osteosarcoma, a diagnosis that would set him on a grueling path of treatment. Lee underwent two surgeries, 10 weeks of chemotherapy, and seven weeks of radiation. His resolve never wavered. Louisiana Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie described Lee as a fighter: “He’s got a fighter’s spirit. He fights. He’s beaten extreme odds before, this would not surprise me one bit. If anyone is going to be able to do it, it’s D-Lee.”
Lee’s determination paid off. After a year of intensive treatment, he rang the bell signifying he was cancer-free—a moment of triumph for a young man who had already overcome so much. In 2024, Lee returned to the football field with Louisiana Tech, embodying resilience and inspiring those around him. He finished his collegiate career with 13 receptions for 129 yards and one touchdown across his stops at LSU and Louisiana Tech. But as many who knew him have emphasized, Lee’s legacy can’t be measured by statistics alone.
His mother, Lacresia Brown, spoke with deep pride and sorrow about her son’s spirit and character: “He was a fighter and he loved everybody. [Devonta] was a good kid [and would] do anything for anybody. He loved football [and] he gave his all in anything he did. He worked out every day [and was] a very hard, dedicated player [who] never gave up in football. [I will miss] my son.”
Tributes poured in from every corner of the football world. LSU’s official statement read, “The LSU Football family mourns the loss of former Tiger, Devonta Lee. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates.” Louisiana Tech echoed the sentiment: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Devonta Lee, a former Bulldog wide receiver. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and former teammates during this difficult time. He will always be remembered as a member of the Bulldog family.” Even former teammates like Ja’Marr Chase paid their respects, with Chase posting a group photo on Instagram captioned, “RIP D. Lee,” followed by a prayer emoji.
Lee’s journey from Fluker to the national championship stage at LSU, and then through the adversity of cancer, stands as a testament to the power of perseverance. His story resonated with many because it was about more than football—it was about grit, loyalty, and an unyielding desire to overcome. In a 2018 interview with the Times-Picayune, Lee expressed his motivation: “I’ve been through the struggle. I got to take care of my family.”
Though his time was cut tragically short, Lee’s impact endures. His coaches remember him for his leadership and heart; his teammates for his unwavering support and drive. For fans and young players in Louisiana and beyond, Lee’s life offers a powerful lesson in never giving up, no matter the odds. Funeral arrangements for Devonta Lee have not yet been announced, but his memory will live on in the halls of Amite High, the locker rooms of LSU and Louisiana Tech, and in the hearts of all who witnessed his journey. As the football world pauses to reflect, one thing is clear: Devonta Lee’s legacy as a fighter—on and off the field—will not soon be forgotten.