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Darron Lee (born October 18, 1994) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft. He was also a member of the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Las Vegas Raiders.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lee moved to New Albany, Ohio during his sixth grade and attended New Albany High School, where he played as a quarterback, wide receiver, safety, and return specialist and led his team to an appearance in the state semifinals as a senior, where they lost to Trotwood-Madison High School, 33–32. In his junior year, Lee helped the Eagles compile a 9–3 record, as the regional semifinalist also captured the Ohio Capital Conference title. As a senior, Lee concentrated on quarterback and secondary duties, helping lead the Eagles to an 11–3 record, including a 7–0 mark as the Division II State Final Four choice captured the regional and Ohio Capital Conference titles. He was named first-team Associated Press Division II All-state as he accounted for over 1,700 yards of offense and 21 touchdowns and recorded five interceptions.

Lee also competed for both the Eagles’ indoor and outdoor track & field teams. During the 2012 indoor season, he had a personal-best 7.23-second clocking in the 60-meter dash and also had a 5’10” (1.78m) high jump at the OSU Buckeye Qualifier Meet.[1] Performing for the outdoor team, he captured the 200-meter title with a 22.21-second clocking and was a member of the 4x400 relay team that took gold with a time of 3:24.53 at the District Running Event;[2] he also had a season-best 43.52-second run as a member of the 4x100 relay team that finished third at the Stingel Invitational.[3] In order to concentrate on offseason football training, Lee was limited during the 2013 indoor season. For the outdoor team in 2013, he finished third in the 100 meters with a personal-best time of 11.06 seconds at the Central District III Meet.[4]

Lee was rated by Rivals.com as a three-star recruit. He was also rated the 29th-best safety in the nation and received four-star status from Scout.com, while ESPN rated him the 28th-best overall player in the state of Ohio.[5] On May 26, Lee committed to Ohio State University to play college football.[6][7]

College career

[edit]

Lee played in two games as a true freshman in 2013 before suffering an injury, which caused him to receive a medical redshirt. After his redshirt freshman season in 2014, Lee switched to linebacker and became a starter.[8][9][10] He was named the Defensive MVP of the 2015 Sugar Bowl after he recorded seven tackles and two sacks.[11][12]

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]

On January 2, 2016, Lee announced his decision to forgo his remaining eligibility and enter the 2016 NFL draft through a statement released via Twitter.[13] Prior to the NFL Combine, the majority of NFL draft experts and scouts projected Lee to be a mid-to-late first round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.[14][15] [16] At the NFL Scouting Combine, Lee solidified his position as a potential first round pick by putting up solid numbers in the combine drills. He finished first among all linebackers in the 40-yard dash and broad jump, finished third among linebackers in the short shuttle, and finished fifth among linebackers in the vertical jump.[17] His time of 4.43s in the 40-yard dash was the fastest 40 time by a linebacker in nine years and was also better than Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott and wide receiver Braxton Miller. Lee's 11’1” broad jump was the third best performance by a linebacker since 2006.[18]

External videos
video icon Darron Lee’s NFL Combine Workout
video icon Darron Lee runs the 40-yard dash
video icon Darron Lee at Ohio State’Pro Day

On March 11, 2016, Lee participated at Ohio State's pro day, but opted to stand on his combine numbers and only performed positional drills. He attended pre-draft visits with multiple teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings.[19][20] At the conclusion of the pre-draft process, Lee was projected to be a first round pick by NFL draft experts and scouts. He was ranked as the second best outside linebacker prospect in the draft by DraftScout.com, was ranked the third best linebacker by NFL analyst Mike Mayock, and was ranked the fourth best linebacker in the draft by Sports Illustrated, NFL analyst Bucky Brooks, and ESPN.[21][22][23][24]

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span Wingspan 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press Wonderlic
6 ft 0+3⁄4 in
(1.85 m)		 232 lb
(105 kg)		 33+1⁄4 in
(0.84 m)		 9+3⁄4 in
(0.25 m)		 6 ft 7+1⁄4 in
(2.01 m)		 4.47 s 1.55 s 2.60 s 4.20 s 7.12 s 35.5 in
(0.90 m)		 11 ft 1 in
(3.38 m)		 17 reps 31
All values from NFL Combine[25][26][27]

New York Jets

[edit]

2016

[edit]

The Jets selected Lee in the first round (20th overall) of the 2016 NFL draft.[28] Lee was the second linebacker drafted in 2016, behind Georgia outside linebacker Leonard Floyd (9th overall).[29] On July 27, 2016, the Jets signed Lee to a four-year, $10.22 million contract that includes $7.92 million guaranteed and a signing bonus of $5.63 million.[30]

External videos
video icon Jets draft Darron Lee 20th overall
video icon First Draft: Ohio State LB Darron Lee

Throughout training camp, Lee competed to be a starting inside linebacker against established veteran Erin Henderson.[31] Head coach Todd Bowles named Lee a backup inside linebacker to begin the regular season, behind starters David Harris and Erin Henderson.[32]

He made his professional regular season debut in the Jets’ season-opener against the Cincinnati Bengals and recorded six combined tackles in their 23–22 loss. Lee received more snaps (36) than starting inside linebacker Erin Henderson (21) in the season-opener, although head coach Todd Bowles maintained that Lee would remain a backup.[33] The following week, Lee earned his first career start after Erin Henderson sustained a foot injury.[34] Lee finished the Jets’ 37–31 win at the Bills with five combined tackles in Week 2. On September 25, 2016, Lee recorded six combined tackles and was credited with half a sack during a 24–3 loss at the Kansas City Chiefs in a Week 3. In Week 6, Lee suffered an ankle injury during the Jets’ 28–3 loss at the Arizona Cardinals and was inactive for the next three games (Weeks 7–9).[35] In Week 12, Lee collected a season-high 11 combined tackles (five solo) and broke up a pass during a 22–17 loss to the New England Patriots.[36] He finished his rookie season in 2016 with 73 combined tackles (45 solo), three pass deflections, and one sack in 13 games and nine starts.[37] Lee started six consecutive games to end the season after Erin Henderson was placed on the Non-Football Injury list on October 22, 2016, and remained inactive for the remainder of the season.[38] Lee received an overall grade of 38.8 from Pro Football Focus and was the lowest graded rookie linebacker in the league due to his inability to handle pass coverage.[39]

2017

[edit]

Lee entered training camp slated as a starting inside linebacker after the Jets opted not to re-sign Erin Henderson. Head coach Todd Bowles named Lee and Demario Davis the starting inside linebackers to begin the regular season, alongside outside linebackers Jordan Jenkins and Josh Martin.[40]

He started in the Jets’ season-opener at the Bills and recorded ten combined tackles (seven solo), one pass deflection, and made his first career solo sack during a 21–12 loss. Lee made his first solo sack on Bills’ quarterback Tyrod Taylor in the first quarter.[41] During the game, he was penalized for a late hit on Bills’ center Eric Wood and was subsequently fined $9,115 and also received a fine of $36,464 for a roughing the passer penalty on Dolphins’ quarterback Jay Cutler. In Week 7, he collected a season-high 11 combined tackles (nine solo) during a 31–28 loss at the Miami Dolphins. On December 3, 2017, Lee was suspended by head coach Todd Bowles for one-game for being late to practice. He was suspended for the Jets’ Week 13 victory at the Chiefs.[42] Lee's second season was marred by fines, which totaled $72,965. He received two fines for roughing the passer penalties that were both on Jay Cutler against the Dolphins and also received a fine for an excessive face mask and a late hit.[43] He finished the season with 94 combined tackles (67 solo), three pass deflections, and three sacks in 15 games and 15 starts.[37] Pro Football Focus gave Lee an overall grade of 34.9 in 2017 and ranked 87th out of 88 qualifying linebackers.[44][45]

2018

[edit]

Lee entered camp as a starting inside linebacker and was named the starter to begin the regular season. He began the season alongside Avery Williamson and starting outside linebackers Josh Martin and Jordan Jenkins.[46]

He started in the Jets’ season-opener at the Detroit Lions and recorded seven combined tackles, a career-high three pass deflections, made two interceptions, and returned one for his first career touchdown in during their 48–17 victory. Lee made his first career interception off a pass attempt by Lions’ quarterback Matthew Stafford, that was originally intended for running back Theo Riddick, and returned it for a 36-yard touchdown in the third quarter.[47] On December 7, Lee was suspended four games due to a PED violation.[48]

2019

[edit]

On May 3, 2019, the Jets declined the fifth-year option on Lee's contract, making him a free agent in 2020.[49]

Kansas City Chiefs

[edit]

On May 15, 2019, the Jets traded Lee to the Chiefs for a 2020 sixth round draft pick.[50] Lee was a member of the Super Bowl LIV winning Chiefs, who defeated the San Francisco 49ers 31–20, though he was inactive for the game itself.[51]

After becoming a free agent in March 2020, Lee was suspended for the first four weeks of the 2020 NFL season on September 10, 2020.[52] He was reinstated from suspension on October 6.[53]

Buffalo Bills

[edit]

On November 2, 2020, Lee was signed to the Buffalo Bills' practice squad.[54] He was elevated to the active roster on November 14 and November 28 for the team's Weeks 10 and 12 games against the Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Chargers, and reverted to the practice squad after each game.[55][56] His practice squad contract with the team expired after the season on February 1, 2021.[57]

Las Vegas Raiders

[edit]

On June 17, 2021, Lee signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.[58] He was placed on injured reserve on August 24.[59] Lee was released by the Raiders on August 30.

Personal life

[edit]

On June 4, 2017, Lee was involved in a verbal altercation with a woman at the Governors Ball Music Festival on Randall's Island. Leonard Williams had pulled Lee away from the fracas, and restrained him.[60][61] On June 26, 2023, an arrest warrant was issued for Lee when he didn't show up for a court appearance.[62] On February 6, 2026, Lee was arrested for first-degree murder in the death of his girlfriend.[63][64]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Darron Lee

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Darron Lee is a former linebacker who played in the (). Born on October 18, 1994, in , Lee attended , where he played for the Buckeyes from 2013 to 2015, redshirting his freshman year before transitioning from safety to outside linebacker and helping the team win the 2014 . He was selected by the in the first round (20th overall) of the , marking him as a highly touted athletic prospect known for his speed and coverage skills. Throughout his professional career, Lee played for the Jets (2016–2018), where he recorded 193 combined tackles over three seasons, the (2019), with whom he won following the 2019 season after contributing 40 tackles and two interceptions in 12 games, and the (2020), where he appeared in two games before opting out of the season due to concerns. He signed with the Raiders in 2021 but was released in August 2021 without playing any games. Following his release, Lee did not play in the again, though he has faced legal issues since 2023, including a case resolved via plea deal in 2025 and first-degree murder and evidence tampering charges in February 2026 in connection with the death of his girlfriend. His career totals include 273 combined tackles, four sacks, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles across 58 games (38 starts). Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 232 pounds, Lee was recognized for his versatility in pass defense and run support, though injuries and suspensions, including four-game bans in 2018 and 2020 for violating the NFL's policy, impacted his trajectory.

Early life

Upbringing and family

Darron Lee was born on October 18, 1994, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Lee's family relocated from Chattanooga to New Albany, Ohio, when he was in sixth grade during elementary school, marking a significant shift in his early childhood environment. This move positioned him in a suburban Columbus community where athletic opportunities became more accessible. Lee's mother, Candice Lee, a Columbus-based television broadcaster, played a central role in his family life and exposure to athletics. From a young age, Lee demonstrated a strong interest in football, later reflecting that he wished he had played linebacker since age five, suggesting an early familial encouragement toward sports through casual activities like throwing a around. No specific sibling involvement in athletics is documented, but his mother's career in sports media likely contributed to his foundational enthusiasm for the sport during his pre-high school years.

High school career

Darron Lee attended New Albany High School in , where he participated in both football and during his high school years, graduating in 2013. In football, Lee was a versatile who excelled at multiple positions, including , , , and on special teams. As a senior in the 2012 season, he primarily played and led the Eagles to the Ohio state semifinals, contributing significantly to the team's offensive output with 12 total touchdowns, 244 rushing yards, and 105 passing yards. Notable performances included a four-touchdown game against Olentangy Orange on September 14, 2012, in a 53-33 victory, and 152 rushing yards with two touchdowns against Tri-Valley in a 42-35 playoff win on November 9, 2012. His versatility and athleticism earned him a national ranking of 395th overall and 22nd in by , with a top-20 finish in Division II for one statistical category and top-2 rankings in the for two stats. On the track and field team, Lee specialized in sprint events, particularly the 100-meter dash, where he recorded a personal-best time of 11.06 seconds as a 6-foot-3, 205-pound . In 2013, he ran 11.10 seconds in the 100 meters at the Central District Division I Finals, securing a spot among the school's historical performers and qualifying for regional competition. His speed complemented his football prowess, highlighting his athletic profile. Lee's high school achievements drew recruitment interest from several top programs, including Ohio State, where he committed as a on June 26, 2012, and enrolled in July 2013.

College career

Ohio State Buckeyes

Darron Lee, a versatile athlete from New Albany High School in Ohio, committed to Ohio State on June 26, 2012, becoming the 13th member of the Buckeyes' 2013 recruiting class after receiving a offer during a visit. Initially viewed as a recruiting afterthought, Lee had persistently sought the opportunity, transitioning from his high school role as a to a projected position, drawn by the program's proximity and his local ties to Columbus. He enrolled at Ohio State in the fall of 2013, ready to adapt to the rigors of Big Ten football under head coach . As a true in 2013, Lee appeared in two games before a season-ending injury led to a medical redshirt, preserving a year of eligibility while allowing him to focus on physical development and positional transition. Upon arriving, he shifted from to outside linebacker, a change that demanded adjustments to the speed and complexity of college defenses, including mastering coverage schemes and edge rushing techniques amid Ohio State's depth at the position. This redshirt period provided essential time for Lee to build strength and integrate into the team's practice routines, helping him acclimate to the higher athletic demands without immediate game pressure. In , as a redshirt , Lee emerged as a rotational contributor on the Buckeyes' defense, playing in all 15 games and recording 81 total tackles, including 16.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks, along with two interceptions, one forced fumble, and a 61-yard fumble return for a in the season opener against . His speed and versatility bolstered Ohio State's hybrid defensive scheme, where he often lined up as a stand-up rusher or in space coverage, contributing to the unit's effectiveness during a 12-1 regular season and playoff run. Lee's early college experience was shaped by Ohio State's emphasis on disciplined team culture, where he quickly adapted due to his upbringing in a Buckeye-centric family—his mother worked as a television anchor in Columbus—fostering a sense of belonging from day one. Academically, he maintained eligibility while navigating the demands of Meyer's program, which prioritized holistic development alongside football, though specific details from this period remain private. The environment reinforced a "do your job" mentality, aligning with Lee's team-first approach honed during his redshirt year.

Key achievements and awards

During his junior season in , Darron Lee emerged as a key defensive leader for the , recording 66 total tackles, including 36 solo stops, along with 11 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, 2 pass deflections, 1 returned for a , and 2 forced fumbles over 13 games. These contributions helped anchor a Buckeyes defense that ranked among the nation's top units, allowing just 15.8 points per game. Lee's standout performances included his pivotal role in high-stakes matchups, most notably earning Defensive honors in the semifinal victory over , where he tallied 7 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 1 sack, and 1 forced fumble to disrupt the Crimson Tide's potent offense. Building on his breakout prior campaigns, Lee's speed and instincts shone in critical moments, such as his 7-tackle effort with 2 sacks and 2 tackles for loss in the against Notre Dame. His exceptional play earned Lee second-team All-American recognition from the , highlighting his versatility as a linebacker capable of impacting both the run and pass games. Additionally, he garnered second-team All-Big Ten honors from both coaches and media, underscoring his dominance within the conference. Following the 2015 season, Lee announced his decision to forgo his senior year and declare for the , citing his readiness for professional football after a decorated college tenure. Pre-draft evaluations ranked him as a top prospect, including No. 11 overall on NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah's big board and the No. 3 outside linebacker by , projecting him as a first-round talent due to his athleticism and production.

Professional career

2016 NFL Draft and New York Jets rookie season

Lee was selected by the with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the . His draft position was bolstered by his standout college performance at Ohio State, where he earned second-team All-American and All-Big Ten honors in 2015. Prior to the draft, Lee impressed at the , measuring 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 232 pounds, while running the in 4.47 seconds—the fastest time among linebackers. Scouting reports highlighted his exceptional speed, athleticism, and coverage abilities, describing him as a versatile three-down linebacker capable of rushing the passer and defending the pass without prior knee injuries, which elevated him to a top-20 prospect status. Analysts praised his quick diagnosis of plays, loose hips for fluid transitions in coverage, and acceleration to close on ball carriers, making him a fit for modern defenses. In his season with the Jets, Lee appeared in 13 games, starting nine, and recorded 73 combined tackles (45 solo), one sack, three passes defended, and three tackles for loss. He adapted to the professional level by leveraging his speed in sub-packages, contributing on 76% of defensive snaps and 42% of special teams plays. A notable moment came in a Week 10 matchup against the , where Lee stuffed running back on a crucial fourth-down play, showcasing his run-stopping instincts. However, an ankle sprain sidelined him for three games midseason, limiting his overall impact as he adjusted to the speed and complexity of offenses.

New York Jets (2017–2019)

In 2017, Lee solidified his role as a starting inside linebacker for the , appearing in 15 games and starting all 15. He suffered an ankle injury in Week 6 against the but returned for the next three games, missing only Week 13 due to being late to practice. He recorded 94 total tackles, including three sacks and two forced fumbles, while defending three passes, contributing significantly to a Jets defense that ranked 22nd in total yards allowed during a 5-11 season. One standout performance came on against the , where Lee tallied a career-high nine solo tackles in a 31-28 loss. By late in the year, he assumed play-calling duties in certain sub-packages, showcasing growing leadership on the field. Lee's 2018 season began with a breakout performance in the opener against the on September 10, where he started and notched seven tackles, three pass deflections, and two interceptions—including a 36-yard pick-six that contributed to a 48-17 Jets victory. Over 12 starts, he amassed 74 tackles, three interceptions for 82 yards and one touchdown, and five passes defended, earning the highest defensive grade (94.5) from in Week 1 among all players. However, his year was cut short by a four-game suspension announced on for violating the 's policy, which cost him approximately $325,000 in game checks and ended his participation in the Jets' final four games of a 4-12 campaign. Heading into 2019, the Jets declined Lee's fifth-year option in May, making him a after the season and signaling uncertainty about his long-term fit amid the team's linebacker overhaul, including the signing of C.J. Mosley. On May 15, the Jets traded Lee to the in exchange for a sixth-round draft pick, parting ways with the former first-rounder before and allowing the Chiefs to bolster their linebacker depth at a low cost given Lee's non-guaranteed $1.843 million salary. Across his three full seasons with the Jets from 2017 to 2019, Lee evolved from a rotational into a core defensive piece, logging over 95% snap participation in his starting years and providing speed in coverage that addressed scheme needs under coordinators and later , though off-field disciplinary issues ultimately influenced his departure.

Trade to Kansas City Chiefs (2019–2020)

On May 15, 2019, the New York Jets traded linebacker Darron Lee to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. The move came after the Jets declined Lee's fifth-year option earlier that offseason, leaving him in the final year of his rookie contract with a base salary of $1.843 million, which became fully non-guaranteed due to a prior suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid highlighted Lee's athleticism and speed—evidenced by his 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the 2016 NFL Combine—as key factors in acquiring him to bolster the outside linebacker position and add depth to a defense seeking more explosiveness. During the 2019 regular season, Lee appeared in all 16 games for the Chiefs, starting two, and recorded 31 total tackles (22 solo), with no sacks, interceptions, or forced fumbles. He logged 160 defensive (15% of team total) primarily as a rotational outside linebacker behind starters and , while contributing significantly on special teams with 241 (57% of team total), where he helped cover kicks and punts. Lee's role diminished after Week 6, averaging just 5.3 defensive per game over the final 10 contests as the Chiefs prioritized other depth pieces, though his early-season versatility aided in sub-package situations against the run and in pass coverage. Lee remained on the Chiefs' roster through their 2019 playoff run, culminating in a 31-20 victory over the in on February 2, 2020, earning him a as a member of the team. However, he was inactive for all three postseason games, including the divisional round win over the Houston Texans, the AFC Championship against the , and the , receiving no snaps or statistics. Entering free agency after the 2019 season without a contract extension from Kansas City, Lee did not return to the team for the 2020 campaign.

Buffalo Bills and Las Vegas Raiders (2020–2021)

Following his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he contributed to their victory, Darron Lee entered the 2020 season as a but was suspended for the first four games due to a violation of the NFL's policy. He was reinstated on October 6, 2020, and the showed interest in adding depth at linebacker, including a visit in late August, though no immediate signing occurred. On November 2, 2020, the Bills signed Lee to their . Lee was elevated to the Bills' active roster twice during the regular season—on for Week 10 against the and on November 28 for Week 12 against the —primarily to bolster special teams. In those two games, he appeared in 31 special teams snaps but saw no defensive action, recording just one solo tackle. His limited role reflected ongoing challenges with injuries and the depth ahead of him on the Bills' linebacker unit, which featured established players like and . Lee remained on the practice squad for the rest of the season but was released on February 1, 2021. As a in the 2021 offseason, Lee signed a one-year contract with the Las Vegas Raiders on June 17, 2021, aiming to revive his career as a versatile outside linebacker. He participated in the preseason, appearing in one game and recording three tackles (one solo and two assisted) while competing for a roster spot amid a crowded linebacker group that included and . However, an undisclosed injury sidelined him, leading to his placement on injured reserve before the regular season began. The Raiders released Lee from injured reserve with an injury settlement on , 2021, effectively ending his brief tenure. These short stints with the Bills and Raiders highlighted a winding down influenced by suspensions, injuries, and inconsistent performance, as Lee transitioned away from the field after showing early promise as a first-round draft pick.

Personal life

Early incidents and philanthropy

In June 2017, during the on Randall's Island in New York, linebacker Darron Lee was involved in a public altercation with his girlfriend. Video footage captured teammate Leonard Williams physically restraining Lee from approaching the woman amid the dispute. No police were called to the scene, and the incident did not result in any arrests or charges. The conducted an investigation, but ultimately decided against imposing any discipline on Lee. The Jets organization also chose not to punish him internally, viewing it as a personal matter resolved without external involvement. Lee has engaged in through NFL initiatives, notably participating in the league's My Cause My Cleats campaign in 2018 to raise awareness for in partnership with the . During that season, he wore custom cleats featuring the organization's branding during games to highlight the cause and support efforts. His involvement aligned with broader NFL player-led efforts to address health-related issues affecting communities. Post-college, Lee maintained a close family bond, particularly with his mother, Candice Lee, a former TV reporter in , who left her position in 2016 to manage his professional affairs and provide personal support during his early years. He became a father in the years following his State tenure, balancing family responsibilities with his athletic career. In terms of non-football interests, Lee has shown enthusiasm for music events, as evidenced by his attendance at festivals like Governors Ball. Among his positive public engagements, Lee signed an endorsement deal with Adidas shortly after being drafted in 2016, promoting the brand's athletic apparel line as a rookie standout. This partnership highlighted his rising profile and commitment to off-field branding opportunities during his time with the Jets. In June 2023, an arrest warrant was issued for Darron Lee after he failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing in Franklin County Municipal Court on domestic violence and assault charges stemming from incidents in October 2022 and April 2023. The October 2022 incident involved allegations of assaulting his mother by choking her, throwing a phone that caused injury, and throwing her to the ground, while the April 2023 incident involved allegedly assaulting the mother of his child by throwing her against a wall and ground, punching her multiple times, and pulling her hair; both occurred at a home in Dublin, Ohio. Lee, a Florida resident, cited medical travel issues for missing the June 26 hearing, which had been rescheduled from an earlier date. The charges included two counts each of and , along with a separate charge for possession of a . Lee was arrested in April 2023 following the second incident and pleaded not guilty at his initial . The warrant remained active until the case progressed, highlighting ongoing legal scrutiny during this period of his professional life. On February 24, 2025, Lee waived his right to a and accepted a plea deal in Franklin County court, resulting in the dismissal of the charge and the amendment of one charge to attempted assault, a second-degree , to which he pleaded guilty. James sentenced him to two years of non-reporting control, a $500 fine, and a no-contact order with the victims for the assault plea; for the drug possession charge, he received one day in jail (with 179 days suspended), 12 months of control, and an additional fine. This resolution allowed Lee to avoid a conviction or record, though the terms imposed restrictions on his personal freedom and required compliance monitoring into 2027. No public statements from Lee regarding the case were reported. In February 2026, Lee was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpétuo, at their home in Ooltewah, Hamilton County, Tennessee. First responders found Perpétuo deceased on February 5, 2026, with the cause of death ruled as homicide by blunt force trauma. On February 11, 2026, a judge ordered Lee held without bond following a hearing, where prosecutors noted the case is eligible for capital punishment, though no decision has been made on seeking the death penalty. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 9, 2026, and the case remains ongoing.

Career statistics

Regular season

Darron Lee has appeared in 75 regular season games over ten seasons from 2016 to 2025 (as of Week 8 of 2025), primarily as an outside linebacker with the before stints with the , , and . His statistical output peaked during his time with the Jets, where he recorded the majority of his tackles and defensive contributions, reflecting his role in their linebacker rotation. Following limited roles with the Chiefs and Bills, Lee joined the Raiders in 2021, contributing additional games and tackles through the 2025 season. The following table summarizes Lee's year-by-year defensive statistics from 2016 to 2020, including (G), games started (GS), combined tackles (combining solo and assisted), sacks, interceptions (INT), passes defended (PD), and forced fumbles (FF). Additional metrics such as tackles for loss (TFL) and hits (QBH) are included where recorded. Statistics for 2021–2025 with the Raiders are aggregated into the career total.
YearTeamGGSTacklesSacksINTPDFFTFLQBH
2016NYJ139731.003033
2017NYJ1515943.003296
2018NYJ1212740.035052
2019KC162310.000000
2020BUF2010.000000
2021–2025LV17161480.000000
Career-75544214.031121711
Across his career, Lee amassed 421 total tackles, 4 sacks, 3 interceptions, 11 passes defended, and 2 forced fumbles, with no touchdowns from defense. His production was concentrated in his first three seasons with the Jets, where he started 36 of 40 games and averaged 80.3 tackles per season, including a career-high 94 in 2017 alongside 3 sacks and 2 forced fumbles that highlighted his pass-rush potential. In contrast, his limited role with the Chiefs in 2019—starting only 2 games—resulted in 31 tackles but no disruptions in the backfield or coverage, while his brief 2020 appearance with the Bills yielded just 1 tackle in 2 games. With the Raiders from 2021 onward, Lee added 148 tackles over 17 games (16 starts) as of Week 8 of 2025, maintaining his role in pass defense and run support without additional sacks, interceptions, or forced fumbles recorded in that period. Advanced metrics underscore Lee's versatility in coverage during his Jets tenure; in 2018, he allowed a 67.9% completion rate on 53 targets for 334 yards and 1 , per target-based data. His 17 tackles for loss and 11 hits further demonstrate impact against the run and pass, though these declined sharply after 2018 amid reduced playing time. Overall, Lee's regular season stats reflect a promising start overshadowed by injuries and role changes, with his Jets era representing his statistical peak, followed by steady contributions with the Raiders.

Postseason

Darron Lee's NFL career included no games played in the postseason, as he remained inactive for all playoff contests during his tenure with the in the 2019 season. Acquired by the Chiefs via trade in May 2019, Lee contributed primarily on special teams during the regular season but did not see action in the team's Divisional Round victory over the Texans, the AFC Championship win against the , or against the . His postseason statistics reflect this limited involvement, totaling zero tackles, interceptions, or other defensive contributions across his career. In contrast to his regular-season totals of 421 combined tackles, 4.0 sacks, and 3 interceptions over 75 games, Lee's playoff absence highlights a depth role on a contending roster without on-field impact in high-stakes matchups. Despite not playing in , Lee earned a as a member of the victorious Chiefs, underscoring his place on the team that ended a 50-year drought. This achievement remains a notable highlight in his professional journey, even amid subsequent stints with the and that did not advance to the during his active participation.

References

  1. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LeexDa00.htm
  2. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/3051398/darron-lee
  3. https://www.nfl.com/players/darron-lee/
  4. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/3051398/darron-lee
  5. https://www.chiefs.com/news/five-things-to-know-about-new-chiefs-lb-darron-lee
  6. https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/courts/2025/02/24/ohio-state-university-defender-darron-lee-plea-deal-domestic-violence-case/80040557007/
  7. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47900637/ex-jets-lb-darron-lee-jailed-bond-murder-charge
  8. https://www.nfl.com/news/jets-darron-lee-suspended-four-games-by-nfl-0ap3000000996946
  9. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/darron-lee.html
  10. https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2016/01/ohio_states_darron_lee_from_hi.html
  11. https://www.maxpreps.com/oh/new-albany/new-albany-eagles/athletes/darron-lee/?careerid=n6t37obat5bh1
  12. https://247sports.com/player/darron-lee-19443/
  13. https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2014/10/42656/darron-lee-went-from-high-school-quarterback-to-playmaking-linebacker-for-ohio-state
  14. https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football-recruiting/2016/05/70290/the-road-to-here-darron-lees-path-from-skinny-necked-quarterback-to-nfl-manimal
  15. https://www.athletic.net/trackandfield/SchoolRecords.aspx?SchoolID=7760
  16. http://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/player/_/id/135995/darron-lee
  17. https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/darron-lee-becomes-no-13-for-ohio-state/
  18. https://247sports.com/college/ohio-state/article/darron-lee-received-his-offer-and-has-committed-to-ohio-state-78775/
  19. https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/sports/college/2015/12/30/ohio-state-football-from-recruiting/10495561007/
  20. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2319613-ohio-state-linebacker-darron-lee-is-college-footballs-best-kept-secret
  21. https://www.landgrantholyland.com/2013/4/6/4167446/darron-lee-2013-ohio-state-football-player-profiles
  22. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/darron-lee-1.html
  23. https://www.espn.com/college-football/game/_/gameId/400547982/ohio-state-navy
  24. https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/college/2015/11/05/ohio-state-football-darron-lee/12270939007/
  25. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/ohio-state/2015.html
  26. https://allstatesugarbowl.org/sports/2022/4/18/postgame-notes-2015-sugar-bowl.aspx
  27. https://www.bucyrustelegraphforum.com/story/sports/college/ohio-state/2015/01/10/osu-linebacker-darron-lee-hard-notice/21580465/
  28. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/darron-lee-1/gamelog/2015/
  29. https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/ohio-state-defense-heavily-represented-in-all-big-ten-honors
  30. https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2016/01/ohio_state_football_darron_lee_1.html
  31. https://www.nfl.com/news/daniel-jeremiah-s-top-50-prospects-for-2016-nfl-draft-0ap3000000641197
  32. https://www.cleveland.com/osu/2016/04/ohio_states_darron_lee_in_the.html
  33. https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/60041/jets-pick-lb-darron-lee-in-first-round
  34. https://jetswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/jets/2016/04/29/jets-draft-pick-darron-lees-college-stats-at-ohio-state/80413841007/
  35. https://walterfootball.com/combine2016LB.php
  36. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2634166-darron-lee-nfl-draft-2016-scouting-report-grade-for-jets-rookie
  37. https://www.cincyjungle.com/2016/4/11/11404186/2016-nfl-draft-profile-ohio-state-linebacker-darron-lee
  38. https://www.newyorkjets.com/video/inside-the-film-room-darron-lee-on-fourth-down-18177625
  39. https://nypost.com/2016/11/26/jets-rookie-about-to-realize-dream-in-facing-tom-brady/
  40. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LeexDa00/gamelog/2017/
  41. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/21652724/new-york-jets-starting-linebacker-darron-lee-healthy-scratch
  42. https://www.footballdb.com/players/darron-lee-leeda06
  43. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/darron-lee-in-position-for-breakout-year-19030122
  44. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LeexDa00/gamelog/2018/
  45. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25478775/darron-lee-new-york-jets-violates-nfl-substance-abuse-policy-gets-4-game-ban
  46. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2019/05/15/darron-lee-new-york-jets-trade-linebacker-kansas-city-chiefs/3688176002/
  47. https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/05/16/darron-lee-jets-trade-chiefs-2020-sixth-round-pick
  48. https://www.forbes.com/sites/jppelzman/2019/01/18/how-darren-lee-fits-in-the-jets-new-defense-plus-which-free-agents-should-they-keep/
  49. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/26757725/jets-ship-lb-lee-chiefs-gm-shake-up
  50. https://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article230458019.html
  51. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/kan/2019-snap-counts.htm
  52. https://jetswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/jets/2020/01/28/darron-lee-super-bowl-jets-trade-little-impact-on-chiefs/79929791007/
  53. https://247sports.com/college/ohio-state/Article/Darron-Lee-Chiefs-win-Super-Bowl-LIV-143243659/
  54. https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/18968/darron-lee
  55. https://www.profootballrumors.com/2020/09/nfl-suspends-lb-darron-lee
  56. https://www.syracuse.com/buffalo-bills/2020/10/darron-lee-bills-adding-former-first-round-pick-report.html
  57. https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-sign-lb-darron-lee-to-the-practice-squad
  58. https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2020/11/14/21565426/buffalo-bills-elevate-five-practice-squad-players-for-week-ten-darron-lee-dane-jackson-daryl-worley
  59. https://sportsforecaster.com/nfl/p/51261
  60. https://www.raiders.com/news/raiders-add-cb-de-vante-bausby-and-lb-darron-lee-2021
  61. https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/las-vegas-raiders/stats/2021?type=pre
  62. https://nfltraderumors.co/raiders-release-lb-darron-lee-from-ir-with-settlement/
  63. https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/transactions/_/name/lv/season/2021
  64. https://nypost.com/2017/06/04/jets-darron-lee-reportedly-in-altercation-at-music-fest/
  65. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story?id=19560270
  66. https://www.nydailynews.com/2017/06/06/jets-wont-punish-darron-lee-for-argument-with-girlfriend-captured-on-video-at-governors-ball-music-fest/
  67. https://www.ganggreennation.com/2017/8/22/16183080/darron-lee-will-not-face-nfl-discipline-for-alleged-governors-ball-incident
  68. https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/darron-lee-jets-governors-ball/
  69. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2807887-nfl-my-cause-my-cleats-2018-full-list-of-participating-players-charities
  70. https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york-jets/post/_/id/61037/jets-rookie-darron-lee-has-new-manager-his-mom-who-quits-tv-job
  71. https://people.com/sports/former-nfl-player-darron-lee-arrested-for-alleged-domestic-violence-against-his-mother-and-childs-mother/
  72. https://www.athletespeakers.com/blog/new-york-jets-rookie-darron-lee-signs-endorsement-deal-with-adidas/
  73. https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/crime/2023/06/26/darron-lee-issued-arrest-warrant-after-failing-to-appear-in-court-ohio-state-football/70356967007/
  74. https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/columbus/former-ohio-state-linebacker-accepts-plea-deal-in-domestic-violence-case/
  75. https://nypost.com/2023/06/26/darron-lee-ex-nfler-has-arrest-warrant-issued-for-missed-court-date/
  76. https://www.10tv.com/article/news/crime/darron-lee-ohio-state-nfl-arrest-warrant/530-6ca8115c-3f2c-4468-b638-c8e719d86376
  77. https://www.yahoo.com/sports/article/former-ohio-state-linebacker-darron-192233770.html
  78. https://www.yahoo.com/news/former-ohio-state-linebacker-accepts-180417782.html
  79. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/feb/11/former-super-bowl-champion-darron-lee-held-without-bond-after-death-of-girlfriend
  80. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2026/02/11/darron-lee-murder-case-tennessee-death-penalty-prosecutors-statements/88631757007/
  81. https://nypost.com/2020/01/27/jets-castoff-darron-lee-on-crazy-super-bowl-2020-journey-with-chiefs/
  82. https://www.espn.com/blog/kansas-city-chiefs/post/_/id/27821/chiefs-49ers-inactives-whos-in-and-whos-out-in-super-bowl-liv
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