Buffalo Bills rally behind Ed Oliver after tragic loss in Harris County

HOUSTON - Former University of Houston football star and Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver is mourning the death of his 2-year-old son following a drowning in Harris County in June.

What we know:

The Buffalo Bills confirmed Oliver’s loss in a statement Saturday, offering condolences to the player and his family.

"It's an unthinkable tragedy for any parent," Bills general manager Brandon Beane said. "We will continue to support Ed and his family as we all grieve this tragic loss."

Harris County drowning

The toddler, also named Ed, was found unresponsive in a residential swimming pool on June 28, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to the 500 block of Lago Trace Drive in northeast Harris County after receiving the report.

The child was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead, authorities said. The sheriff’s office did not publicly identify the child or release the child’s age at the time. 

Dig deeper:

Oliver, a Houston native and Westfield High School graduate, played for the University of Houston from 2016 through 2018. 

The Bills selected Oliver with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He is entering his eighth season with Buffalo.

Oliver did not travel with the Bills for Saturday’s preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. The team said he had also missed practice this week with an undisclosed injury.

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