Former Florida Gators React to Passing of Donald 'Reche' Caldwell

The tragic passing of former Florida Gators wide receiver Donald "Reche" Caldwell has struck a nerve in the UF community. The 41-year old, six-year former NFL wide receiver was shot and killed on Saturday in what appears to have been a targeted attack outside of his home.

Caldwell was a key contributor during his three years at Florida, hauling in 49 receptions for 760 yards and six touchdowns during the 2000 SEC Championship run under head coach Steve Spurrier. In his following junior campaign, Caldwell caught another 65 passes, presenting a deep-threat by averaging 16.3 yards per catch with 1059 receiving yards, and 10 scores.

He went on to be selected in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers, spending four years there before spending time with the New England Patriots, Washington, and St. Louis Rams. Caldwell finished his NFL career with 152 receptions for 1851 yards and 11 touchdowns.

We mourn the passing of six-year NFL veteran WR Reche Caldwell.

Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/pEBuXxFKNY
— NFL (@NFL) June 7, 2020

An outpour of respect from former teammates, fans, and the university in response to Caldwell's death across social media has followed suit. Caldwell's quarterback over his final two years at UF, Rex Grossman, released an early tweet in response to his passing, calling Caldwell one of his "favorite teammates of all time".

RIP Reche. You were one of my favorite teammates of all time. I will always remember our time at Florida for your unreal talent, infectious humor, and our shared success as a team. You will be missed by all your Gator family.
— Rex Grossman (@RexDGrossman) June 7, 2020

Below, you'll find continued words or respect and mourning from the Gator community. Stemming large and wide from Florida's football Twitter handle confirming Caldwell's passing, to former college teammates Gators players such as tight end Ben Troupe and linebacker Johnny Rutledge, pro teammates, and others.

This story will be updated with continued well wishes from the Florida Gators community.

Rest is Paradise Reche. Dang man. https://t.co/bqpbjA31zz
— Ben Troupe (@BenTroupe84) June 7, 2020

🙏🏾🙏🏾 https://t.co/9VdITF2iVk
— Major Wright (@LilMade21) June 7, 2020

I played against Reche Caldwell in college, we were both c/o 2002, and spent time together on the 2007 Patriots. so many stories, but one thing you knew about Shady was he always smiling. here’s a 2002 rookie card we shared. RIP, good brother. 🙏🏿 pic.twitter.com/HXUdoZdRXX
— Donté Stallworth (@DonteStallworth) June 7, 2020

Always kept us laughing and light hearted. Always had the biggest smile. Always had the greatest stories. Sad to hear about the passing of my teammate Reche Caldwell. May the Lord comfort his family during this time.
— Benjamin Watson (@BenjaminSWatson) June 7, 2020

Rest In Peace to Gators legend Reche Caldwell.
— Stadium and Gale: A Florida Gators Podcast (@StadiumAndGale) June 7, 2020

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of former Charger Reche Caldwell.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Reche’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/vsoj0zeeWP
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) June 7, 2020

From @TomBrady’s Instagram. He and Reche Caldwell played together in New England in 2006. pic.twitter.com/hbAMSGIHyz
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) June 7, 2020