Former NFL Receiver Reche Caldwell Shot And Killed As Former Patriots Teammates Remember His Life

Donald Caldwell Jr. (better known as Reche Caldwell), seven-year NFL vet and University of Florida alum, was shot and killed in his hometown of Tampa, Fla. on Saturday night. The NFL, along with many of his former teammates and fellow NFL players, have offered their condolences.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Patriot Reche Caldwell.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/mxBtkTXTKD

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 7, 2020

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of former Charger Reche Caldwell.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Reche’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/vsoj0zeeWP

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) June 7, 2020

Caldwell, 41, led the Florida Gators to the SEC championship in 2000 and was the Patriots’ leading receiver with 760 yards in 2006. He is the epitome of Tom Brady’s success with less prominent receivers as Caldwell received over twice as many targets and yards with the Patriots than he did on any other team.

The police report indicates that Caldwell was ambushed by a couple of people who were attempting to rob his household. He was then shot in both the leg and the chest, and was pronounced dead in the ambulance on the way to the hospital.

It’s a sad day for many in the NFL community. Although Caldwell had his fair share of struggles off the field in his post-NFL days, it is obvious that he had a positive impact on the lives of many and will not be forgotten for some of his Patriots family in particular:

Statement from Bill Belichick regarding Reche Caldwell. pic.twitter.com/p0qJrO9kTF

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 7, 2020