Former Georgia linebacker Akeem Hebron passes away unexpectedly
Former Georgia linebacker Akeem Hebron has passed away, per Georgia football’s social media.
Several of Hebron’s friends, including Travis Hawkins, posted about the news on social media on Friday. Georgia later confirmed the news on Sunday evening, sending out a tweet remembering the linebacker.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a beloved member of the Bulldog family, Akeem Hebron,” the tweet said. “His dedication to Georgia Football will always be remembered. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Hebron was 34 years old at the time of his passing. At the time of posting, no specific details on his death have been released.
The Maryland native was a member of the Georgia 2006 recruiting class. He was a highly ranked four-star prospect and the No. 2 overall player to come out of the state of Maryland. However, Hebron did not end up turning into a significant contributor for the Bulldogs.
Hebron saw action in 16 games for the ‘Dawgs from 2008 to 2010. In those appearances, he recorded 10 tackles with seven assisted and three solo. Two of those tackles went for a loss in his senior season with one of them being recorded as the sole sack of his collegiate career.
In those three seasons where he saw significant snaps, Georgia went 24-15 with two bowl wins and a ranking as the No. 1 team in the nation at one point in 2008.
Georgia fans across social media have paid their respects, with remembrance taking place all throughout Twitter. Hebron may have not put up the biggest numbers during his time in Athens but will forever be remembered for what he did inside the program.
According to the Chattanooga Times Free Press, Hebron bounced back from a tough start to his Georgia career. At one point, Hebron was served a suspension but when everything was said and done, he graduated from the university.
Former Georgia coach Mark Richt told the Times Free Press in 2010 that he was proud of Akeem Hebron for growing up during his time in Athens.
“A good thing happened to Georgia and to him,” Richt said. “The greatest thing, I think, that’s happened to him is that he’s grown into a man. That’s one of the biggest things that college is all about. He’s a good man, and he’s proved that, and I’m really proud of him.”