Former NFL wide receiver Donald "Reche" Caldwell was shot and killed on Saturday in Tampa, Florida, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport confirmed on Sunday.
Caldwell was 41 years old.
TMZ first reported the news.
The Tampa Police Department told NFL Media that it cannot release any victim information, but was working on a homicide.
A 2002 second-round pick by the Chargers after starring at Florida, Caldwell played four seasons with the Bolts before stints with the Patriots and Redskins. During his six seasons, Caldwell totaled 152 receptions, 1,851 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns. His most productive campaign was his lone season with the Patriots in 2006 when he had 61 catches for 760 yards and four scores during a New England run to the AFC Championship Game. Caldwell was the Patriots' -- and quarterback Tom Brady's -- leading receiver that year.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Patriot Reche Caldwell.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 7, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/mxBtkTXTKD
Caldwell's last season in the NFL was 2007 with the Redskins.
Caldwell is the older brother of former Bengals and Broncos receiver Andre Caldwell, who won a Super Bowl with Denver.
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of former Charger Reche Caldwell.
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) June 7, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Reche’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/vsoj0zeeWP
We are terribly saddened to hear of the passing of former Redskins WR Reche Caldwell.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) June 7, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Caldwell family along with all of Reche’s friends and teammates. pic.twitter.com/0uvTObcNRh
Statement from Bill Belichick regarding Reche Caldwell. pic.twitter.com/p0qJrO9kTF
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 7, 2020
Tom Brady posted on his Instagram story a photo of he and Caldwell celebrating together in 2006, along with the caption, "All love RIP,” accompanied by a heart.
So sad to hear this! Reche’s smile and attitude were contagious! My thoughts and prayers go out to Bubba Caldwell and his family! https://t.co/CXBUdKGFJk
— Wes Welker (@WesWelker) June 7, 2020
Always kept us laughing and light hearted. Always had the biggest smile. Always had the greatest stories. Sad to hear about the passing of my teammate Reche Caldwell. May the Lord comfort his family during this time.
— Benjamin Watson (@BenjaminSWatson) June 7, 2020
I played against Reche Caldwell in college, we were both c/o 2002, and spent time together on the 2007 Patriots. so many stories, but one thing you knew about Shady was he always smiling. here’s a 2002 rookie card we shared. RIP, good brother. 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/HXUdoZdRXX
— Donté Stallworth (@DonteStallworth) June 7, 2020