Former NFL first-round draft pick Darron Lee was arrested and charged with first-degree murder on Friday in connection with his girlfriend's death, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office in Tennessee.
First responders discovered the victim on Tuesday afternoon. After life-saving attempts failed, detectives preliminarily ruled the death a homicide, leading to Lee's arrest at the scene.
The 31-year-old also faces a charge of tampering with evidence. He is currently being held without bond and has a court date scheduled for next Wednesday. Further charges may follow the investigation.
Lee was a standout linebacker at Ohio State, winning the 2015 national championship and being named defensive MVP of the Sugar Bowl. He was selected 20th overall by the New York Jets in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Over three seasons with the Jets, he started 36 games but was suspended in 2018 for a substance abuse violation. After being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019, his playing time diminished. His last NFL appearance was with the Buffalo Bills in 2020.