As an early enrollee at the University of Cincinnati, Kelly had begun practicing with the Bearcats football team during the spring semester.
CINCINNATI — 3News has learned that Jeremiah Kelly, a freshman football player at the University of Cincinnati and a graduate of Avon High School, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Tuesday morning.
“The Bearcats football family is heartbroken by the sudden loss of this outstanding young man,” said UC Head Football Coach Scott Satterfield in a statement. “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. My prayers are with the Kelly family and those who had the pleasure of knowing Jeremiah.”
The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office confirmed to 3News that they are investigating his death, noting that an autopsy will be performed on Wednesday.
The 18-year-old Northeast Ohio native helped lead Avon High School to its first state championship in 2024, as the Eagles finished the season with a perfect 16-0 record.
According to the University of Cincinnati, Kelly was named the Southwest Conference Lineman of the Year and earned first-team all-conference and all-district honors as a senior. The Plain Dealer ranked him among Northeast Ohio’s Top 25 football prospects.
As an early enrollee at the University of Cincinnati, Kelly had begun practicing with the Bearcats football team during the spring semester.
“We’ve suffered a heartbreaking loss today,” added Director of Athletics John Cunningham. “All of us at UC send our love and prayers to the Kelly family and we will do everything that we can to support them and our Bearcats student-athletes in the difficult days and weeks ahead.”
Avon Local Schools released the following statement regarding his death:
The Big 12 Conference also reacted to the passing of Kelly.
Ahead of last year’s state championship, 3News’ Lindsay Buckingham spoke with Kelly on what Avon’s football team meant to him.
“When times got tough throughout the season, we didn’t ever turn our back on each other,” Kelly said. “Our brotherhood really showed and (stayed through) those tough moments.
The full moment can be watched below:
REACTION FROM NORTHEAST OHIO
Following the news of his passing, many took to social media to share heartfelt messages and condolences.
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