Former NFL linebacker Darron Lee, a onetime first-round draft pick of the New York Jets, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of his girlfriend, authorities in Tennessee said Friday.
Lee, 31, was taken into custody Thursday at a residence in Hamilton County, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to a call reporting CPR in progress. When first responders arrived, they found a woman at the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate the woman’s death was a homicide. Her identity has not been released as authorities work to notify family members.
Lee, identified as the victim’s boyfriend, was also charged with tampering with evidence. Officials said additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues. He is currently being held at the Hamilton County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 11.
No further details were released by authorities.
Lee was previously arrested in 2023 on charges related to assault and domestic violence.
The New York Jets selected Lee with the 20th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft after a standout college career at Ohio State. He played three seasons with the Jets, starting 36 games and recording three interceptions. He was released in 2019 and later spent a season with the Kansas City Chiefs, earning a Super Bowl LIV ring, though he was inactive for the game. Lee also appeared in two games with the Buffalo Bills in 2020, marking the final action of his NFL career.
Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lee moved to Ohio as a child and starred for the Buckeyes, where he was named Defensive MVP of the 2015 Sugar Bowl.