Inside the Article:
We have some awful news to report this morning regarding the Detroit Lions. According to a report from Eric Woodyard of ESPN, former Lions LB Jessie Lemonier has passed away at the age of just 25. As noted by Woodyard, Lemonier appeared in seven games for Detroit during the 2021 season. Overall in his brief career in the NFL, he played in thirteen total games, picking up 17 total tackles and 1.5 sacks. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Lemonier during this most difficult time.
Jesse Lemonier’s career in the NFL
Lemonier, who was 25 years old, originally signed with the Los Angeles Chargers as an undrafted rookie free agent following the conclusion of the 2020 NFL Draft. He did not survive the final roster cuts before the 2020 season, but he was signed to the Chargers practice squad. He was eventually signed by Detroit where he ended up playing in seven games during the 2021 season. He was waived by Detroit following the 2021 season and claimed by the Arizona Cardinals. He was waived by the Cardinals before the 2022 season.
- Lemonier played his college ball at Liberty
- Signed as UDFA by Chargers following 2020 NFL Draft
- He played in six total games for the Chargers
- Eventually signed by Detroit, where he went on to play in seven games
- Waived by Detroit following 2021 season
- Signed and then waived by Cardinals
- Selected by Arlington Renegades in 2023 XFL Draft
- Ended up signing with Houston Gamblers of the USFL before being traded to Birmingham Stallions
By the Numbers
After signing with the Los Angeles Chargers as a UDFA following the 2020 NFL Draft, Lemonier went on to play in 13 total NFL games.
- Played in 6 games for the Chargers in 2020
- 2 Tackles and 2 QB hits in 2022
- Played in 7 games for the Lions in 2021
- Started 2 games
- 15 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 2021
