The sudden passing of former Michigan defensive end Craig Roh was a shock to the many people that knew him and played alongside him. For his former high school and college teammate Taylor Lewan, it was especially devastating.
Taking to X on Wednesday , Lewan spoke about the unique relationship he had with Roh that goes all the way back to their high school days at Chapparal in Arizona. He credited Roh with the opportunities he got to enjoy life the way he does now offered condolences to Roh’s wife and child before including a photo of the two of the in high school.
“Without Craig I never have the opportunity to live the life I do now. I would never made it to college, never go to the NFL, and would never be sitting in the position I am today. So Craig Roh really and truly did change my life for the better,” Lewan wrote.
“I’m heartbroken for his wife Chelsea and their young son who now has to grow up without his father.
“Anyone who knew Craig knew at his core he was a good person who always tried his best regardless of the circumstances.”
Roh played at Michigan from 2009 to 2012, with Lewan as his teammate for his entire college career. After going undrafted in 2013, Roh tried to join the NFL with the Carolina Panthers but never played.
Roh enjoyed a seven-year career in the Canadian Football League, winning the Grey Cup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2019.
He passed away this week following a battle with colon cancer at the age of 33.