Former Maryland DB Isaiah Hazel dies in car crash at 23

Former Maryland and Charlotte safety Isaiah Hazel passed away at just 23 years old in a reported car accident on Friday night. Hazel was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, per Maryland state police. Hazel was one of three casualties as rookie Vikings cornerback Khyree Jackson and former Florida State and Penn State cornerback AJ Lytton also tragically passed away. All three played together at Wise High School. While at Wise, Isaiah Hazel led the Pumas to three consecutive undefeated seasons before being named a 2018 second-team All-Met selection. Hazel became the first prospect to sign with Maryland under head coach Mike Locksley after the former four-star flipped his pledge from West Virginia on signing day. Hazel played in all but two games at wide receiver and special teams during his freshman season, but transitioned to a defensive back as a sophomore where he appeared in all five games during the COVID-shortened 2020 season. Hazel made his first career start during his junior season against Minnesota where he recorded a pair of tackles for loss while remaining an integral part of the safety rotation after appearing in all 13 games. Hazel's final season at Maryland came in 2022 after appearing in all 12 games before entering the transfer portal. During his four seasons in College Park, Hazel finished with 42 total tackles, four tackles for loss and a pair of pass deflections. Hazel also took part in Maryland's pro day back in late March as he began shifting his attention to the professional route. Rest in peace to the family and friends of Isaiah Hazel, AJ Lytton and Khyree Jackson. Related Links Decision day arrives for a pair of Maryland football defensive line targetsOn3 evaluates pressure on Mike Locksley, Maryland football in 2024Manvel quarterback Jackson Hamilton commits to Maryland after June OVMilford Mill HC Reggie White talks about Amory Hills’ commitment to MarylandIntel: Maryland takes clear lead for four-star top targetIntel: where Maryland football stands with remaining 2025 targets