Ray Lewis III, NFL Star Ray Lewis' Son, Dead At 28

On June 15, tragedy struck former NFL player Ray Lewis as he experienced the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ray Lewis III, who has died at the young age of 28.

While specific details surrounding Ray III's death have yet to be revealed, friends and family have begun to pay their last respects. "Really can't believe I'm evening typings this but RIP big brother," his younger brother Rahsaan Lewis wrote on his Instagram Story. "A true angel. I pray you're at peace now because I know how much you [were] really hurting." Ray III's sister Diaymon Lewis also took to Instagram, sharing a touching tribute to her brother. "Brownie, I love [you] with all of my heart," she wrote. "You will always be my first love and truly are the definition of a quintessential brother. To the most genuine and talented person I know, go get your rest baby and I'm glad you're at peace. Fly high baby."

According to People, Ray III followed in his famous father's footsteps. He began playing football at a young age and later attended the University of Miami, where he started his college football career with the Hurricanes. As of publication, Ray Lewis has not commented on the tragic loss of his son, and the cause of his death is unknown. 

Though his career was short-lived, Ray Lewis III was able to make a name for himself in college football. In January 2015, after two years with the Miami Hurricanes, Lewis transferred to Coastal Carolina University, where he played for the Chanticleers. Per Huff Post, the 28-year-old subsequently transferred to Virginia Union University where he joined the Panthers. "Ray was a tremendous young man who played with the spirit of a lion. He was a great asset to the Virginia Union family. He will always be a Panther. May God bless his family," his former coach at Virginia Union, Mark James, said in a statement (per USA Today). After his college career, Lewis reportedly went on to play for the Wyoming Mustangs, a professional indoor football team.

Despite his remarkable run, however, Lewis' career was once threatened by a sexual assault case. In April 2016, ESPN reported that the then-20-year-old was arrested and charged with one count of criminal sexual misconduct after allegedly having sex with a woman under the influence. Four months later, he was indicted by a jury. After months of investigation, however, the case was dismissed and the charges dropped. Though the legal battle cost Lewis his spot on the Coastal Carolina football team, he was, by all indications, able to put it all behind him.