After scoring the winning touchdown during the Bills’ mid-October 2022 triumph against the Kansas City Chiefs, Dawson Knox looked and pointed to the heavens. He posted a picture of the celebration on Twitter, writing: “That one’s for you 16.” Dawson’s late brother, Luke Knox, wore the number 16 jersey. 

Like his brother, Luke played for the Ole Miss Rebels. However, he transferred to Florida International University to line up for the Panthers during the 2022 season. However, Luke didn’t see a minute of action, as he died on 17th August 2022. 

“We are saddened by the sudden passing of Luke Knox, a member of the FIU Football Program,” FIU athletics tweeted. 

Luke’s cause of death remains unclear; the police have ruled out foul play

FIU Police Captain Delrish Moss told NBC News that Luke was discovered by friends in his dorm in ‘medical distress.’ Captain Moss continued:

“FIU police was called and FIU police officers arrived and attempted CPR until rescue arrived and took over. He was transported to a local hospital by Miami-County Fire Rescue and he later died at that hospital.”

Miami-Dade Police took over the investigation into Luke’s death; they didn’t suspect foul play, Detective Chris Thomas said. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to publicize Luke’s cause of death. 

Luke left behind four siblings – Dawson, LJ, Isaiah, and Nate – and two parents – Rachel and David Knox. Dawson posted the following tweet on behalf of the family:

“Thank you all for the outpouring of love and support for my family. Our hearts are broken but we know Luke is in a much better place now with his savior Jesus.”

The NFL star posted Luke a lot on his Instagram page. On 3rd September 2020, Dawson posted a throwback photo of the pair and expressed hope via the caption that he’d reunite with Luke someday:

“Luke is not lost, because we know exactly where he is. God’s got him, and I know I’ll be seeing him again one day. Luke’s legacy will continue [to] live on through all the lives he’s impacted in incredible ways. This isn’t a goodbye, it’s just a see you later. I love you, Luke.