University of Cincinnati Mourns the Sudden Loss of Freshman Football Player Jeremiah Kelly
Cincinnati, OH — April 25, 2025
The University of Cincinnati community is grieving the unexpected passing of Jeremiah Kelly, an 18-year-old freshman offensive lineman for the Bearcats football team. Kelly died in his sleep at his off-campus residence on the morning of April 22, 2025. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
A native of Avon, Ohio, Kelly was a standout athlete at Avon High School. In 2024, he played a pivotal role in leading the Eagles to a perfect 16–0 season and their first-ever OHSAA Division II state championship. His exceptional performance earned him first-team all-conference and all-district honors, as well as the title of Southwestern Conference Lineman of the Year. Recognized as one of Northeast Ohio’s top 25 football prospects by The Plain Dealer, Kelly was ranked No. 78 in Ohio and No. 44 nationally among guard prospects by ESPN.
Kelly joined the University of Cincinnati as an early enrollee in January 2025 and had been actively participating in spring practices with the Bearcats football team. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 320 pounds, he was anticipated to make significant contributions to the team’s offensive line in the upcoming season.
Head Coach Scott Satterfield expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “The Bearcats football family is heartbroken by the sudden loss of this outstanding young man. 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.
Athletic Director John Cunningham also extended his condolences, saying, “We’ve suffered a heartbreaking loss today. 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.”
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been established by a family friend to assist with unexpected expenses. The fundraiser has garnered significant support, raising over $30,000 toward its $50,000 goal.
The University of Cincinnati community continues to mourn the loss of a promising young athlete whose life was cut tragically short. Jeremiah Kelly’s legacy will endure through the indelible impact he made on and off the field.
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