Northwestern State Football Cancels Rest of Season After Death of Player

Northwestern State is canceling the rest of its football season in the aftermath of the death of safety Ronnie Caldwell.

The FCS Demons, who compete in the Southland Conference, announced the development Thursday in a press release which also announced the resignation of coach Brad Laird.

“Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has caused me, I don’t feel I can give my all to these players or this program,” Laird said in the statement. “Any coach will tell you that their players become like family, so the loss of Ronnie was like losing a son. I love this program and this university and I know it will persevere and move forward with the competitive spirit that is at the core of our DNA.”

Caldwell, 21, was shot and killed in Natchitoches, La., on Oct. 12. Northwestern State immediately canceled its Oct. 14 game against Nicholls and later returned to action on Oct. 19 with a 37-20 loss to Southeastern Louisiana.

“Ronnie was a beloved member of our community, and we miss him dearly,” university president Marcus Jones said. “While our instinct was to return to the field of play following his death, we’ve since learned that the hurt on our team was too deep. Now it is in the best interest of our players, coaches, and staff to pause and to take this time to mourn, to heal, and to support Ronnie’s family.”