The team confirmed that the Rams rerun Otis Anderson Jr. died on Monday. He is 23 years old.
According to arrest reports, the former UCF star was fatally shot Monday night at his parents’ home in Jacksonville, Fla.as reported by ESPN).
The Rams announced the loss on social media on Tuesday afternoon.
The Rams are deeply saddened by the tragic and sudden passing of Otis Anderson Jr. We extend our sincere condolences to his family during this very difficult time.
Rest in peace, Otis. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/riYTep6VLw
– Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 30, 2021
According to an arrest report published by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Anderson’s mother, Denise, told police her son’s death was the result of an argument between him and his father, Otis. Anderson Sr. . left to the garage and returned to meet his son in the kitchen, where he allegedly shot and killed him.
Anderson Sr. is facing first degree murder and first degree murder. Anderson Sr. will be held without a mortgage before he is scheduled for his next court date on December 22.
Before the Rams made the announcement Tuesday afternoon, several players mourned the loss of Anderson Jr. on social media, among them Jalen Ramsey, Terrell Burgess and Sebastian Joseph-Day. Many still shared their thoughts and prayers via Twitter on Tuesday morning, including rookie Jacob Harris, who played college football with Anderson while they were both at UCF.
Rest in peace in Heaven Otis
We must do better on this earth. Pray to grow up– Jalen Ramsey (@jalenramsey) November 30, 2021
Can’t believe this is real. RIP 2🖤
– Jacob Harris (@JacobHarris87) November 30, 2021
During his time at UCF, Anderson Jr scored 2,182 yards of charge with 17 touchdowns and caught 91 1,025-foot passes and nine touchdowns. He eventually got the nickname “The Juice” because of his initials.
The Rams signed Anderson Jr. as an untrained freelance agent in June. He didn’t make the Rams’ final list after earning three shots from 10 yards and two catches from 16 yards – three more tees from 54 yards and one return at a distance of 15 yards. He was not signed to the team’s active roster, but was signed to their practice team. He was then also waved from there.
Anderson’s jersey and flowers were placed on the UCF football field as his former teammates gathered for a memorial service. Anderson’s image was also posted on a video board inside the foyer of the football facility.
