WESTERVILLE, Ohio – It is with profound sadness that Otterbein University, its Athletic Department and the Cardinal football program painfully mourns the loss of student-athlete Nigel Chatman, who tragically passed away Friday morning after injuries sustained from a car accident. He was 21 years old.

A sophomore from Reynoldsburg, Chatman was a standout defensive lineman for Otterbein and earned All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) honors last fall as just a freshman. Chatman was majoring in communication studies and extremely well known around campus for his outgoing personality.

"We talk a lot about the importance of family as a program, as a department and institution," said Dawn Stewart, director of athletics and interim vice president for student affairs. "Never more is there a time for the meaning of that to come forward than right now. We will pull together and work to continue on for Nigel."

Chatman burst onto the scene last year as a nose guard, earning second team All-OAC following 35 tackles (10 for loss), 5.5 sacks and a fumble recovery. He was involved with the Otterbein Debate Team, served in a work-study role through the athletic department and pursued many other involvement opportunities around campus.

"There was never a day that he didn't have a smile on his face," head coach Tim Doup said. "He was never in a bad mood, always ready to go and was about as fun-loving a kid that you can be around. Nigel was a unique vocal presence and could always make somebody laugh no matter what the circumstances. He was competitive, willing and just wanted it all so bad. We will miss him in every way imaginable."

At the request of the Chatman family and decision from all players within the program, Otterbein will still suit up and take the field in Nigel's honor Saturday afternoon at Ohio Wesleyan. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.

Information regarding visitation hours and funeral arrangements will be posted as soon as they become available. Otterbein encourages anyone who may need additional support to contact the many campus resources, day or night.

Counseling Services: (614-823-1333)
Chaplain: (614-823-1409)
Student Affairs: (614-823-1250)
Center for Student Success: (614-823-1625