At the young age of 34 years old, former Alabama and NFL defensive lineman has passed away. The tragic news came moments ago as former teammates and other Crimson Tide legends took to Facebook and other social media platforms expressing their condolences. Details of Washington’s death have not been released.
Washington signed with Alabama in 2005 under then head coach Mike Shula. He was redshirted his first season. In his freshman campaign of 2006, he saw significant action and provided a great contribution up front. After the hiring of Nick Saban in 2007, Washington would be moved to defensive end where he flourished. Lorenzo was a vital part of a outstanding defensive line group that helped the Crimson Tide win the 2009 SEC Championship as well as the BCS National Championship that same season. During his senior campaign, he contributed 21 tackles, including 5 for a loss and 2 sacks.
It came as a surprise to many that he went undrafted in the 2010 NFL Draft. However, his stellar, consistent performance with Alabama garnered a free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys. Washington also spent time with Patriots, Jets, and Lions.
The news came as a shock to Tide fans and former players alike. After speaking with one of those players, he wished to keep the details of his passing to himself out of respect to Lorenzo’s family. News will be forthcoming within the next few days. Washington was not only a great player, but a young man of great character. It’s a sentiment that’s been consistently echoed as more players come forward with posts on social media. “The world lost a real one today,” said former teammate Eryk Anders. Another one of his teammates, Ezekiel Knight, said this, “Well, I’m really hurt about this news. He was young and gone too soon. I wish I would’ve got the chance to hang out with him like we used to. I’m praying for his family because I can only imagine how they feel. RIP my brother!” The news of Washington’s tragic passing has hit the Alabama community hard. Keep his family and loved ones in your prayers as they mourn his death.
I am a 2003 graduate from the University of Alabama with a degree in Exercise Science. While at the Capstone, I served as a student assistant with the head strength and conditioning coach of the Crimson Tide football team. I have competed in both powerlifting and bodybuilding for several years. In addition, I have served athletes and people through the arena of personal training. Jesus is my Lord and Savior. I am a passionate fan of Alabama, but do not make other fan bases miserable because of it. College football has my heart first, but I cover all areas of sports. Follow me on Twitter: @justinriley7!