Former NFL player Cedric Killings, who retired after suffering a fractured vertebra on the field, has passed away at age 45. Killings’ alma mater shared the news that the former defensive lineman passed away from pancreatic cancer on June 21.
“Cedric was a fantastic person, player, father, husband, teammate and most importantly, a man of God,” Carson-Newman head football coach Mike Clowney said in a statement. “We are praying for and grieve with Cedric’s family during this difficult time.”
Killings’ wife, Shavon, released a heartbreaking statement of her on on Facebook.
It's with great sadness we share the news of @cnfootball legend, C-N and @SAC_Athletics Hall of Famer Cedric Killings' passing.
He was 45
📋 https://t.co/OMUjZ7AQvb pic.twitter.com/uXrBDyjpYl
— Carson-Newman Athletics (@CN_Eagles) June 23, 2023
“My love, my best friend, my husband of 21 years is no longer physically with me but he lives in my heart and in the hearts of our 3 children,” she wrote. “I’m comforted in knowing he is resting and no longer in pain, but I’m still at a loss and can’t believe this is real. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting him then you already know how special he is. Just an all-around great person. I don’t just say this as his wife, it’s echoed by family, friends, and former teammates. It has been an honor to share life with him and to love and be loved by him. [Red heart] So grateful for it all. Love you for life.”
Killings was a four-time Division II All-American at Carson-Newman before signing with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent in 2000. He would go on to have stints with the Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders, and Houston Texans.
Killings career came to an end after suffering a fractured vertebra during on a kickoff in a Week 3 game against the Indianapolis Colts.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
Our deepest condolences go out to Killings’ family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
