Former NFL Wide Receiver Reche Caldwell, 41, Killed in Florida

TUSCALOOSA, Ala- Former NFL wide receiver Donald "Reche" Caldwell died at the age of 41 in his hometown of Tampa, Florida on Saturday night.

Caldwell's mother confirmed to TMZ, Caldwell was killed Saturday night. He lead a seven season career in the NFL. Caldwell was a former team member of the Florida Gators. He helped lead the team to win the SEC championship in 2000.

He was a second round pick in the 2002 NFL draft. Caldwell played professionally for San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots, and Washington Redskins of the NFL. He returned to Tampa at the end of his career and opened an event planning company and volunteered as a football coach.

Caldwell was arrested in 2014 and was sentenced 27-months in federal prison for drug possession with the intent to sell. He also pleaded guilty in January of 2020, to commit health fraud, along with several other former NFL players. Over the span of 18 months they filed nearly $4 million in false insurance claims.

Jenna Laine of ESPN gathered several statements from his former coaches and teammates. Patriots Coach Bill Belichick said in a statement," I am saddened to hear the news about Reche. He is remembered for his solid contributions to our team. My thoughts and prayers are with Reche's family."

Former teammate Wes Welker tweeted: "Reche smile and attitude were contagious! My thoughts and prayers go out to Bubba Caldwell and his family." Welker played with Caldwell in 2004 with the Charger. Then reconnected in before the 2007 season with New England.

Benjamin Watson former Patriots teammate tweeted: " Always kept us laughing and lighthearted. Always had the biggest smile. Always had the greatest stories. Sad to hear about the passing of my teammate Reche Caldwell May the Lord comfort his family during this time."

Through the span of Caldwell 71 career games, he had 11 touchdowns and caught 152 passes for 1,851 receiving yards.