WASHINGTON (WUSA9)-- Family and friends announced Wednesday afternoon that University of Maryland football player Jordan McNair passed away.
Earlier this month, McNair was hospitalized following an organized team workout.
The family still hasn't disclosed all the details of McNair’s medical condition, but according to the GoFundMe page, it’s possible McNair suffered a heat stroke. That same page had just met its goal of $20,000 to help McNair's medical expenses.
McNair was airlifted to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore, where he received a liver transplant a few days later.
The University of Maryland Executive Athletic Director Damon Evans sent a letter to the Maryland community about McNair and included the thoughts from UMD Football Coach DJ Durkin:
"Our team is heartbroken with the loss of Jordan McNair. Jordan was an incredible young man, and his passion and enthusiasm made him an invaluable and beloved member of our team. Jordan was a hard worker and he always had a smile on his face. He was an extremely talented football player and a humble and genuine human being. He embodied the essence of what it means to be a teammate. Jordan was a fighter. Over the past few weeks, Jordan never gave up with his family, friends and team by his side. Our team will continue to be inspired by the spirit of this brave fighter. Please continue to pray for Jordan’s family during this difficult time."
Teammates and friends of McNair posted on Twitter Wednesday that the freshman had died.
The school's letter in its entirety is below
Dear Terrapin Family,
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our student-athletes, sophomore football player Jordan McNair. Jordan was a tremendous athlete, student, teammate and friend, and he will be sorely missed. We offer our deepest condolences to his parents, family and friends.
Jordan was hospitalized following an organized team workout on May 29 and passed away today, June 13. For those who had the opportunity to know Jordan, you understand the sadness we are feeling.
Coach DJ Durkin asked me to pass along the following thoughts on his behalf:
Our team is heartbroken with the loss of Jordan McNair. Jordan was an incredible young man, and his passion and enthusiasm made him an invaluable and beloved member of our team. Jordan was a hard worker and he always had a smile on his face. He was an extremely talented football player and a humble and genuine human being. He embodied the essence of what it means to be a teammate. Jordan was a fighter. Over the past few weeks, Jordan never gave up with his family, friends and team by his side. Our team will continue to be inspired by the spirit of this brave fighter. Please continue to pray for Jordan’s family during this difficult time.
Counseling services are available for our student-athletes and for our staff.
Our thoughts and support continue to be with his family as they grieve the loss of this outstanding young man.
Sincerely,
Damon Evans
Executive Athletic Director
