The college football community was shocked and saddened by the news of Jayden Hullaby’s death on May 23, 2023. The former New Mexico and Texas football player was only 21 years old and had a promising future ahead of him. But what was the cause of his death? And what happened to him in the days leading up to his tragic demise? Here is what we know so far.
A Missing Person Case
According to ESPN, Jayden Hullaby had been missing since Friday, May 19, 2023. His uncle tweeted on Sunday, May 21, that Jayden had last been heard from on Thursday, May 18, and that he could not be tracked on any of his devices. His last known location and time was in Dallas, West Bound I-30 at 6:23 pm. His uncle also said that it was unlike Jayden to not answer calls from his family.
His younger brother, Lando Hullaby, announced Jayden’s death with a photo montage on Twitter on May 22, 2023. He wrote: “Forever living through you big brudda I love you so much and I got you and the family forever I swear get your rest King LLJAY.”
A Rising Star
Jayden Hullaby was from Mansfield, Texas. He graduated from Mansfield Timberview High School, where he was a two-sport star, participating in football and track and field. In 2014, he was named the City of Mansfield Male Athlete of the Year.
A four-star recruit, he got recruited by the University of Texas for football. As a freshman at Texas, he played in two games and then redshirted in 2021. He transferred to the University of New Mexico in 2022 to get more opportunities to play. Subsequently, he appeared in eight games for the Lobos last season. He entered the transfer portal again in December 2022, but did not commit to a new team.
Jayden Hullaby played various positions during his time with New Mexico and Texas. He played as a linebacker, running back and tight end. He showed his versatility and talent on the field, catching two passes for 44 yards and ending the last season with 59 yards on 13 carries.
A Tragic Loss
The cause of Jayden Hullaby’s death remains unknown, as his family and close sources have not yet revealed any information. However, some rumors have circulated on social media, suggesting that he may have taken his own life by committing suicide. These rumors have not been confirmed or denied by anyone.
A police investigation has been launched to unravel the mystery behind his death and provide answers to the many questions being asked by his family and loved ones. At this time, however, the police have said they haven’t discovered any evidence of foul play.
Jayden Hullaby’s death has stunned his friends, teammates and coaches. Both the New Mexico and Texas programs have expressed their condolences to his family and paid tribute to him on social media. Many people have shared their memories of him and praised him for his character and achievements.
His family has asked the public for privacy during this difficult time. A service is expected to be held in his memory at a later date. The family also announced that donations may be made to the Jaden Hullaby Memorial Fund. The fund is to serve as a way to preserve his memory and will be used to provide scholarships for young athletes in Hullaby’s hometown of Mansfield.
We’d also like to give our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Jayden Hullaby. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.