Eryon Barnett, Former Texas, Montana State CB Dies

Eryon Barnett, who played defensive back and special teams at the University of Texas and most recently Montana State, died on July 4. 

Parker Gabriel of the Bozeman Daily Chronicle provided details on Barnett's passing:

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The Gallatin County Coroner’s office on Saturday evening confirmed the death of Eryon Barnett, a former cornerback for the Montana State football team. The deputy coroner said Barnett died at approximately 3:30 p.m. Saturday and was in the Bozeman hospital at the time of his death.

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No cause of death has been revealed, with Gabriel noting the deputy coroner is not likely to complete an autopsy until Monday. 

Montana State head coach Rob Ash issued a brief statement that was included in Gabriel's report.

“We’re heartbroken by the loss of Eryon Barnett,” Ash said. “He fought through so much as a football player, and always showed a resilient spirit that everyone that knew him drew from and admired.”

Barnett's college career started under Mack Brown at the University of Texas in 2009. He redshirted as a freshman before appearing in seven games on special teams in 2010. 

Brown offered his condolences to Barnett's family on Twitter after learning of his former player's untimely death:

After missing the entire 2011 season, Barnett transferred to Montana State in time for the 2012 season. He appeared in 32 games over three seasons with the Bobcats, playing his final year at free safety after converting from cornerback. 

Barnett's last official football activity took place on March 17 during Montana State's NFL pro day. According to the school's official website, he graduated in May with a degree in sociology.