JoJo Nicolas Dies: Miami University Standout, Onetime New York Giant Killed In Car Crash

JoJo Nicolas died on Wednesday, one day after the former New York Giants player was involved in a car crash in Miami Beach.

The 24-year-old Nicolas was seriously injured in the wreck, which took place when his car collided with a tractor trailer. Nicolas was listed in critical condition after the crash, and died hours later.

Police said they are still investigating the circumstances of the crash, and that it is too early to know if speed or alcohol played a role.

“Those could be contributing factors. It’s still part of the investigation,” Miami Beach detective Vivian Hernandez told the Sun Sentinel. “They took measurements and that will take a little bit of time.”

JoJo Nicolas was a standout defensive back at the University of Miami, playing from 2007 to 2011. In his senior season Nicolas made 66 tackles and had two interceptions, and went on to win the Melching Leadership Award from Miami.

He went undrafted but was signed by the New York Giants in 2012, though he was released in training camp.

On Wednesday, Miami released a statement mourning the loss of JoJo Nicolas.

“JoJo was a valued member of our community, our school and our football program, and his loss is devastating to everyone he touched,” Miami athletic director Blake James said in a statement. “On behalf of the university, I send our condolences and thoughts and prayers to JoJo’s family, friends and teammates. He will forever be a part of The U.”

Head coach Al Golden added that Nicolas’ death was a “deep loss” for the University of Miami community. He said those who were able to coach and play alongside Nicolas will carry his memory on.

Even before his untimely death, JoJo Nicolas was no stranger to tragedy. In his senior season he lost an infant son, who was born prematurely.