Devonta Lee had done what so many could not: he beat cancer. Declared cancer-free in 2023 after a brutal battle with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer, the former LSU and Louisiana Tech wide receiver returned to the football field for the 2024 season. But his triumph was short-lived. The cancer returned, and on February 26, 2026, Lee passed away at the age of 27, leaving behind a devastated family, two football programs, and a sport that will not soon forget him.
A Mother’s Heartbreaking Farewell
Dec 28, 2024; Shreveport, LA, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs wide receiver Devonta Lee (8) returns a kick against the Army Black Knights during the second half of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
It was Lee’s mother, Lacresia Brown, who confirmed his passing to local outlet KTVE, and her words were as powerful as they were painful. “He was a fighter, and he loved everybody,” Brown said. “He was a good kid who would do anything for anybody. He loved football and gave his all in anything he did. He worked out every day, a very hard, dedicated player who never gave up in football. I will miss my son.” Her tribute painted a portrait of a young man who refused to let illness define him.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
In 2022, while at Louisiana Tech, Lee began experiencing severe back pain. What followed was a diagnosis of osteosarcoma, one of the most physically demanding cancers to treat, particularly for a young athlete. The illness forced Lee off the field at what should have been the prime of his college career. His medical journey included two surgeries, ten weeks of chemotherapy, and seven weeks of radiation therapy. Through it all, those closest to him said he never lost his competitive fire or his commitment to those around him.
A Fighter in Every Sense
Oct 9, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; LSU Tigers wide receiver Devonta Lee (16) drives against Kentucky Wildcats defensive back Yusuf Corker (29) during the third quarter at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Even at his lowest, Lee refused to stop training. His mother confirmed that during his illness, he continued to work out regularly and maintained an extraordinary mental strength that inspired those around him. Louisiana Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie had previously expressed confidence in Lee’s ability to overcome the disease, stating: “If anyone can achieve this, it’s D-Lee.” Those words rang true in 2023 when Lee was declared cancer-free, a moment celebrated by both his family and the wider Louisiana football community.
A National Champion at LSU
Sep 18, 2021; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers wide receiver Devonta Lee (16) is tackled by Central Michigan Chippewas defensive lineman Thomas Incoom (9) during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Lee arrived at LSU in 2019 as a four-star recruit, ranked No. 12 at his position nationally by Rivals and No. 6 in the state of Louisiana. He joined the Tigers during one of the greatest seasons in college football history, becoming part of the LSU squad that claimed the 2019 College Football Playoff National Championship, defeating Clemson in the title game. That team featured future NFL stars Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase, and Lee’s role, however small, placed him among elite company at one of the sport’s most storied programs.
His Stats on the Field
Sep 21, 2019; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores wide receiver Kalija Lipscomb (16) scores after a catch ahead of a tackle attempt from LSU Tigers wide receiver Devonta Lee (5) during the second half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
Over his collegiate career at both LSU and Louisiana Tech, Lee totaled 13 receptions for 129 yards and one touchdown. At LSU across three seasons, he recorded 11 receptions for 112 yards and one touchdown. While those numbers may appear modest, they do not reflect the full scope of what Lee brought to both programs, a tireless work ethic, a selfless attitude, and an unshakeable character that teammates and coaches consistently praised long after his playing days were cut short.
Roots in Fluker, Louisiana
Sep 18, 2021; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers head coach Ed Ogeron looks on from on the sideline as the Tigers take on Central Michigan Chippewas at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Clause/The Advertiser via USA TODAY NETWORK
Lee grew up in Fluker, Louisiana, a small community that shaped his values, his toughness, and his loyalty. He attended Amite High School, a program known for producing top-level football talent, and helped lead the team to a 2A State Championship in 2018. Lee himself never shied away from the hardships of his upbringing: “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.” It was that foundation, raw, honest, and unbreakable, that defined everything he became on and off the field.
LSU Mourns One of Its Own
Dec 27, 2025; Houston, TX, USA; A detail view of LSU painted in the end zone prior to the game against the Houston Cougars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
The LSU football program was among the first to publicly express its grief following Lee’s passing. “The LSU Football family mourns the loss of former Tiger, Devonta Lee,” the program posted. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates.” Louisiana Tech also paid tribute, stating that Lee “will always be remembered as a member of the Bulldog family.” Both programs acknowledged not just his contributions on the field, but the kind of person he was, someone who gave more than he ever received.
The Return That Gave Everyone Hope
Dec 28, 2024; Shreveport, LA, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs quarterback Evan Bullock (7) controls the ball against the Army Black Knights during the first half of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
After being declared cancer-free in 2023, Lee’s return to the football field for the 2024 season was widely celebrated as a symbol of resilience. For those who had watched him endure surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, seeing him back in uniform was nothing short of remarkable. It was the kind of comeback that transcends sport, a young man reclaiming his life against enormous odds. That he was taken so soon after, at just 27, makes his story all the more heartbreaking for everyone who witnessed his journey.
A Legacy Larger Than the Game
Dec 28, 2024; Shreveport, LA, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs kicker Drew Henderson (43) kicks a field goal during the second half of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Devonta Lee never made an NFL roster, never earned a professional contract, and never played a full college season without interruption, but his legacy is undeniable. He was, by every account, a young man of extraordinary character who faced one of life’s most difficult challenges without bitterness or retreat. His story is a reminder that the most meaningful legacies are not always built through stats or trophies, but through how a person treats others and how they respond when life becomes unbearable. The football world has lost one of its finest people.
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Sources:
“Devonta Lee, former LSU receiver, passes away at 27.” LSU Reveille, February 26, 2026.
“Devonta Lee cause of death: former LSU wide receiver died at 27.” Marca, February 26, 2026.
“Former LSU, Louisiana Tech WR Devonta Lee dies at 26 after battling cancer.” Yahoo Sports, February 26, 2026.
“Former National Champion LSU Football Player Devonta Lee Dies at Age 26.” Tiger Rag, February 26, 2026.
“Devonta Lee — Player Biography and Career Statistics.” LSU Sports (lsusports.net), accessed February 2026.
“Statement from Lacresia Brown.” KTVE Local News (Monroe/El Dorado), February 26, 2026.
