Georgia football OL, staff member tragically die in car accident

A Georgia football player, Devin Willock, and a recruiting staff member have died in a single-car crash.

Early Sundaymorning, two members of the Georgia football team — a player and recruiting staff member — died in a car accident in Athens, Georgia. The player was 20-year-old offensive lineman Devin Willock and the staffer was a recruiter, Chandler LeCroy.

The incident was a single-car crash that happened at 2:45 a.m. Two other members of the football team were in the vehicle and are in stable condition, according to a press release from the university.

Willock, who is from New Milford, New Jersey, completed a redshirt sophomore season in 2022. He had just finished celebrating the Bulldogs’ national title alongside teammates over the weekend. Fans took to Twitter to archive his Instagram stories of the celebration on Sunday morning.

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart releases statement

Kirby Smart released a statement alongside the school. Here is what he had to say:

"“We are all heartbroken and devastated with the loss of Devin Willock and Chandler LeCroy. Devin was an outstanding young man in every way. He was always smiling, was a great teammate and a joy to coach. Chandler was a valuable member of our football staff and brought an incredible attitude and energy every single day. We grieve with their families for this tragic loss and will support them in every way possible.”"

Several teammates also expressed their grief on social media.

UGA releases statements

Here is the UGA Athletic Association’s statement:

"“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Two other members of the football program were injured in the accident. They are both in stable condition, and we will continue to monitor their status with medical personnel.“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department. We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.“The UGA Athletic Association will work with our medical team as well as our mental health and performance personnel to make sure we are providing the best support possible for our staff and student-athletes who are processing this grief. We can provide no further comment at this time but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”"

School president Jere W. Morehead released a statement as well:

"“On behalf of the University of Georgia, our entire campus grieves for the loss of two young members of our campus community—student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends. We also pray for the full recovery of those injured in this tragic accident.”"