Jackson State University is mourning the death of Levi Wyatt Jr., a 23-year-old former football player who died in a single-vehicle crash shortly after completing his college career and graduating with a degree from the university.
A career defined by perseverance
Wyatt wrapped up a standout final season under head coach T.C. Taylor, finishing with 12 tackles, nine solo, and four pass breakups, helping the Tigers finish 9-3 and capture a conference championship.
His football path had wound through high school in Mississippi, a stint at a junior college, the Southland Conference and finally Jackson State, where he embraced position changes and recovered from injuries to earn a Division I scholarship.
After earning his degree, Wyatt announced his intention to enter the 2026 professional draft cycle, signaling ambitions in the NFL, the United Football League and the Canadian Football League.
Community tributes
The Mississippi sports community, including the Mississippi High School Sports Page, extended condolences to his family, while supporter Thee Standard posted a prayer for the family on X formerly Twitter.
Wyatt’s story resonated beyond the field, illustrating the grit required to navigate multiple programs and the promise of a bright future that was abruptly ended. His memory will linger in the HBCU football landscape and among those who followed his journey.
Fans and alumni have shared memories of his relentless work ethic, and the university plans a memorial service to celebrate his contributions on and off the field.