The cause of death has been disclosed for Jeremiah Kelly, the former University of Cincinnati offensive tackle.who passed away at 18 years old on April 22.
Kelly passed away due to “cardiac hypertrophy,” as stated in a coroner’s report,ESPN reports. More accurately referred to as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, HCM is a complicated cardiac condition that causes thickening of the heart muscle and may impact the heart’s muscular tissue, as stated by theCleveland Clinic.
Kelly’s mother, Chiniqua Kelly, stated that Jeremiah was her “healthiest” child and “never had any problems.”
“It makes you want to be more conscious, as if there’s something you can possibly protect your child from,” she said to ESPN.
A university representative stated that Kelly had completed a required pre-participation physical examination by the NCAA and had taken part in spring practices with the Bearcats following an early enrollment at Cincinnati.
The Cincinnati football team and athletic department remain in grief over Jeremiah’s death,” the spokesperson stated. “He is greatly missed by everyone.
Before attending Cincinnati, Kelly played for the Avon High School Eagles in Avon, Ohio, which is roughly 25 minutes southwest of Cleveland. As a senior in 2024, Kelly guided the Eagles to capture the school’s first Division II Ohio state championship with a perfect 16-0 record, and wasnamed All-Ohio Division II first team.
“The Avon community is heartbroken by the tragic passing of Jeremiah,” wrote Avon’s head football coach Mike Elder in apost to Xon April 22, accompanied by a link to a GoFundMe campaign set up for Kelly’s family. “He was a cherished son, brother, classmate, and teammate. His infectious positive energy brightened every room, and everyone who met him adored him. There are no words to describe our sorrow.”
In April, Cincinnati’s head football coach Scott Satterfield released a statement honoring Kelly after his passing.
“The Bearcats football community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of this remarkable young individual,” Satterfield stated in anews releaseDuring the brief period Jeremiah has been part of our team, he has left a significant mark, both during games and in the locker room. I am sending my prayers to the Kelly family and everyone who had the chance to know Jeremiah.
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