Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins dead from tragic highway accident

Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Pittsburgh Steelers backup quarterback Dwayne Haskins has died suddenly at the age of 24.

Quarterback Dwayne Haskins (c) was originally drafted out of Ohio State by Washington and was a backup most recently in Pittsburgh.
Quarterback Dwayne Haskins (c) was originally drafted out of Ohio State by Washington and was a backup most recently in Pittsburgh.  © imago/Icon SMI

Media reports said he had been hit by a dump truck while walking on a highway in Florida. The incident was reported just after 6:30 AM.

"He was attempting to cross the westbound lanes of Interstate 595 when there was oncoming traffic," Florida Highway Patrol spokesperson Lt. Indiana Miranda said.

The athlete was pronounced dead at the scene by authorities.

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It's not known why Haskins was on the highway walking, but Miranda also added the accident is "an open traffic homicide investigation.''

Haskins was training in South Florida with fellow Steelers quarterback Mitch Trubisky, running backs, and wide receivers.

"I am devastated and at a loss for words with the unfortunate passing of Dwayne Haskins," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said in a statement on Saturday.

"He quickly became part of our Steelers family upon his arrival in Pittsburgh and was one of our hardest workers, both on the field and in our community. Dwayne was a great teammate, but even more so a tremendous friend to so many. I am truly heartbroken."

Haskins was a first-round NFL draft pick, and 15th overall, by Washington in 2019 after a great college football season in 2018 at Ohio State.

Haskins spent two seasons with Washington before signing with the Steelers in January 2021.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kalabrya, and his entire family during this difficult time," Tomlin said.

Cover photo: IMAGO/ZUMA Wire

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