Former college football player paralysed in swimming accident dies unexpectedly

The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Bobby Roundtree, a former Illinois college football player who was paralysed from the waist down in a swimming accident two years ago, has died aged 23, according to reports. The University of Illinois said on Friday that the death of the former defensive end had "shocked and saddened” everyone at the institution, and that from "his first day on campus, Bobby was a leader.” Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman said of the Florida native: “His work ethic, competitive fire, and drive for excellence set him apart” and that “In the face of incredible adversity, he demonstrated he was, and always will remain, a true champion”. Mr Whitman added: “Following his tragic accident, those same qualities allowed him to tackle his new challenges with the same vigor and determination that we had seen on the football field. Mr Roundtree told The Chicago Sun Times last year that he believed he would regain strength in his lower body and walk again.