Former UCF running back Otis Anderson Jr. was shot and killed Monday, and his father has been charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.
Anderson Jr. was 23. The family is not related to longtime NFL running back Ottis Anderson.
“We have now confirmed and are devastated to hear of the passing of Otis Anderson Jr.,” UCF said in a statement. “He was revered by his teammates, our fans, and everyone within Knight Nation. Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who loved Otis. He was taken too soon and will truly be missed.”
An arrest report released Tuesday said Anderson Jr. had an argument with his parents at their home in Jacksonville, Fla. The father and son separated, but mother Denise Anderson told police that her husband confronted Anderson Jr. once more in the kitchen.
Police found Anderson Jr. suffering from at least one gunshot wound to the chest. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The elder Anderson appeared before a judge Tuesday, was held without bond and has a court appearance scheduled for Dec. 22.
Anderson Jr. played for UCF from 2017-2020. He went undrafted in 2021 and signed with the Los Angeles Rams. He spent time training camp and preseason with the Rams and began the regular season on their practice squad before being cut.
“The Rams are saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of Otis Anderson Jr. … He was a promising young man with a bright future. Our sincere condolences are with his family during this very difficult time,” the Rams said in a statement Tuesday.
Anderson Jr.’s former coach at UCF, Josh Heupel, now the coach at Tennessee, also sent his condolences.
“Saddened and stunned by the passing of Otis Anderson Jr.,” Heupel wrote. “Tough and gritty, fun and full of laughter, he made such a positive impact on our university, community, and our locker room. He was an unbelievable teammate. My condolences go out to the entire UCF family.”
–Field Level Media
