How did Devon Wylie die? Former NFL wide receiver remembered fondly after death at 35

Devon Wylie's football journey began with stardom at Granite Bay High School in California
PUBLISHED NOV 15, 2023
Devon Wylie was known for his personality, his humor, his love of family and his passion to play guitar (@d_wylie19/Instagram)
Devon Wylie was known for his personality, his humor, his love of family and his passion to play guitar (@d_wylie19/Instagram)

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI: Former NFL wide receiver Devon Wylie, known for his time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Tennessee Titans, has died at the age of 35; the cause of death was not revealed.

Reportedly, his family shared the heartbreaking news with the wider community on November 14.

(@d_wylie19/Instagram)
Family members of former Bulldog wide receiver Devon Wylie confirmed reports via social media on November 13 evening that he has died at 35 years old.  (@d_wylie19/Instagram)

'There are no words to express the sadness'

The family's statement, expressing the difficulty of reaching out individually to everyone, painted a poignant picture of the impact Devon had on those around him.

"There are no words to express the sadness that comes from losing a brother, dear friend and an amazing uncle. Devon had so much love and joy to give," it said.

(@d_wylie19/Instagram)
Devon Wylie was a Sacramento Bee All-Metro player for Granite Bay in 2006, when he was the MVP of the Sierra Foothill League as a runner out of the Grizzlies’ fly offense(@d_wylie19/Instagram)

The statemment continued, "Always making people laugh and entertaining us with his football skills, guitar jams, silly jokes and voices, back-flip tricks, fun banter Star Wars obsession chat, Halo nights and not to mention his beautiful smile. We will miss him always."

When did Devon Wylie play last? 

Devon Wylie's professional football journey concluded in 2017 when he was part of the CFL. Following his time in football, he had ventured into a music career, exploring new avenues beyond the field.

Wylie's football journey began with stardom at Granite Bay High School in California. From 2007 to 2011, he showcased his skills at Fresno State, recording an impressive 56 receptions in 13 games during his senior season.

Wylie's versatility extended beyond receiving, leading the Western Athletic Conference with 15.38 yards per punt return.

(@d_wylie19/Instagram)
DevonWylie's best was in 2011 as he recorded career highs of 56 catches for 716 yards (@d_wylie19/Instagram)

Notably, he returned two punts for touchdowns against formidable opponents, No 10 Nebraska and No 5 Boise State.

His impact was further highlighted in the East-West Shrine Bowl, where he contributed four punt returns for 54 yards, showcasing his prowess in the college football All-Star game.

When did Devon Wylie join Kansas City? 

In the 2012 NFL Draft, Wylie was chosen by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fourth round, marking the beginning of his NFL career

His selection happened after his draft stock received a significant boost when he clocked an impressive 4.36-second 40-yard dash during the pre-draft NFL Scouting Combine in 2012, showcasing his exceptional speed and athleticism.

Sources claim that Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel spoke highly of Wylie, noting his impressive quickness and catching abilities.

According to Crennel, "He showed some pretty good quickness and things as far as catching the ball goes." 

Crennel continued, "What he was advertised as, it showed. I mean, he has really good quickness and he runs really good routes. I think he’ll be able to get a step on defenders and have a chance to make plays." 

Wylie made an impact during his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, catching six passes in six games.

(@d_wylie19/Instagram)
Devon Wylie was selected 107th overall, in the 4th round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. (@d_wylie19/Instagram)

However, he was released before the commencement of the 2013 season. Subsequently, he played in two games with the Tennessee Titans in 2013.

Over the next three seasons, Wylie found himself on the practice squads of various teams, contributing his skills and expertise in that capacity.

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