This is just gut-wrenching news: Jelani Newman, who played offensive line for San Jose State, has tragically passed away at just 25 years old. A friend close to him described it as a sudden motorcycle accident. Man, that just hits different.
Remembering a Spartan
Jelani wore No. 72 for the Spartans from 2019 through 2022, and the program itself paid tribute to him on September 23. They put up a photo of his jersey, a real gut-punch reminder, with the words, “Our hearts are with the Newman Family during this time. Forever in our hearts #72.” You can tell what he meant to that team. His friend, Domenica Civitano, is doing what she can, raising money through a GoFundMe to help his family with memorial and burial expenses. That’s what it’s all about, supporting each other when tragedy strikes. We don’t have all the details about the crash yet, but the suddenness of it is just awful.
His Journey to the Field
This kid had a real path. Jelani joined the Spartans after absolutely tearing it up at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Arizona. San Jose State officially announced his signing back in December 2018, snagging a standout. He redshirted his first year, which is pretty common for offensive linemen, but then he made his major college debut in the 2020 Arizona Bowl. That’s a huge moment for any player. The 2021 season? He was right there, appearing in all 12 games. Think about that, every single game, putting in the work. Back in high school, he was a two-time Arizona Interscholastic Association first-team All-Region 4A pick, and he was even named a first-team all-state Class 4A player in 2018. Not just football either, the man was a multi-sport athlete, competing in track and field, throwing shot put and discus. On top of all that, his college biography mentioned he was studying business administration. And get this: his dream was to become a general manager of a professional sports franchise. Imagine that, a guy playing the game, then wanting to run the whole show. What a goal.
It’s just heartbreaking to see a young life with so much potential cut short. The San Jose State community is clearly hurting right now, rallying around his family and honoring his memory. Keep his family and friends in your thoughts, and if you can, support the GoFundMe that Domenica Civitano has set up. This is a tough one, folks. Rest in peace, Jelani. Forever #72.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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