Former NFL receiver Reche Caldwell has died at the age of 41 after being shot outside his home in Tampa.
He died on Saturday while en route to the hospital, after being shot twice, in the leg and in the chest.
TMZ quotes his mother as saying the incident happened when Caldwell was preparing to go out on a date with his girlfriend.
The former American footballer was said to have been ambushed by some people near his house.
Caldwell’s girlfriend said he died while in an ambulance heading for the hospital to receive treatment.
The 41-year-old made his name in the NFL during the 2000s, lining up for San Diego Chargers and New England Patriots.
He was also with the Washington Redskins and the University of Florida for some time.
The tributes were led by former Florida coach Steve Spurrier, who described Caldwell as “one of the best WR's in school history and was very instrumental in winning the 2000 SEC Championship.”
Former Gators quarterback Rex Grossman also tweeted: ''RIP Reche. You were one of my favorite teammates of all time. I will always remember our time at Florida for your unreal talent, infectious humor, and our shared success as a team. You will be missed by all your Gator family.''
