Tragic Loss of Utah State Cornerback Andre Seldon Jr. in Drowning Incident

In a tragic incident, Andre Seldon Jr., a promising cornerback for Utah State University, has died at the age of 22 following an apparent drowning at Porcupine Reservoir in Utah. The heartbreaking news was made public by the university on Saturday.

Authorities from the Cache County Sheriff’s Office began a search operation in the afternoon after receiving reports of a young man who had been diving from cliffs into the reservoir but failed to resurface. Tragically, after a comprehensive search that included divers and a helicopter from the Utah Department of Public Safety, Seldon’s body was recovered at approximately 9:05 PM local time.

The Sheriff’s Office stated that their preliminary investigation points to this being a tragic accident, corroborated by the testimony of several witnesses present at the scene. According to these accounts, Seldon was diving from cliffs before disappearing under the water.

Andre Seldon Jr. had transferred to Utah State University earlier this year after spending two seasons playing football at New Mexico State. It was during his time with New Mexico State that he played under Nate Dreiling, who is currently serving as Utah State’s interim head coach and defensive coordinator.

Upon hearing the news, Dreiling expressed the profound sorrow felt by the football program, stating, “Our football program is heartbroken to have to endure the loss of one of our own. Having had a previous relationship with Andre during our time together at New Mexico State, I can tell you he was an incredible person and teammate. Our condolences and prayers go out to Andre’s family as we grieve with them over this tremendous loss.”

Seldon was set to begin his classes at Utah State this upcoming fall semester. In a separate statement, Diana Sabau, the vice president and director of athletics at Utah State, conveyed her deep sympathies, saying, “Our Utah State University Athletics family is devastated over the sudden death of Andre Seldon Jr. We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who loved Andre.”

Andre Seldon was known for his remarkable skills as a football player. He previously earned accolades as a standout at Belleville High School in Michigan, where he was regarded as one of the elite cornerback prospects in the nation. ESPN had ranked him as Michigan’s fourth-best player in the class of 2020, elevating expectations for his collegiate career.

During his high school tenure in 2019, Seldon played a crucial role in leading the Belleville Tigers to victories that included conference, district, and regional championships, along with a run to the MHSAA Division 1 state semifinals.

Following his high school success, Seldon committed to the University of Michigan, where he lettered for two years and was recognized as an Academic All-Big Ten honoree in 2021. He then transferred to New Mexico State, where he became a team captain and made a significant impact on the field, participating in 28 games and recording an impressive 96 tackles and two interceptions.

In the 2023 season, under Seldon’s leadership, the New Mexico State Aggies achieved a remarkable ten-win record, marking one of the most successful seasons the program has experienced in many years. His contributions to the team were profoundly valued, and his presence on the field will be greatly missed.

New Mexico State also released a statement expressing sorrow over the loss, stating, “The Aggie community is devastated to hear the news of the passing of Andre Seldon Jr. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.” Michigan’s head coach, Sherrone Moore, shared his condolences on social media as well, expressing his sadness and describing Seldon as a great young man both on and off the field.

Seldon’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the football communities at Utah State, New Mexico State, and his former high school. The memories of his talent, leadership, and spirit will remain cherished by all who knew him. The devastation felt by his family, friends, and teammates is immeasurable, as they come to terms with the loss of a dedicated player and remarkable individual.

As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death continues, the sports world mourns the loss of Andre Seldon Jr., a talented athlete with a promising future ahead of him.