Northwestern State University announced today, October 26th, that it has made the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of the 2023 football season. This comes as a result of the recent passing of Ronnie Caldwell, a junior safety from Cedar Park, Texas. The university cites the mental health and wellbeing of its student-athletes as the primary reason for this unprecedented move.

Ronnie Caldwell was a beloved member of the Northwestern State community, and his loss has deeply affected the team. NSU President Dr. Marcus Jones expressed the pain felt by the entire university, stating, "Ronnie was a beloved member of our community, and we miss him dearly." The team initially intended to continue playing in honor of Ronnie's memory but soon realized that the impact of his passing was too profound. The decision to cancel the season was made to allow the players, coaches, and staff the necessary time to mourn, heal, and support Ronnie's family.

In light of these tragic events, the university has also accepted the resignation of head coach Brad Laird, who had been with the Demons football team for six seasons. Laird, deeply affected by the loss of Ronnie, explained, "Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has caused me, I don't feel I can give my all to these players or this program." He expressed his love for the program and the university and expressed confidence in Northwestern State's ability to persevere and move forward.

Ronnie Caldwell had been bravely pushing through an injury, continuing to contribute to the team by traveling and providing coaching assistance to fellow defensive backs. The circumstances surrounding his untimely death remain under investigation by the Natchitoches Police Department.

The Northwestern State University community is grateful for Coach Laird's dedication and contributions to the football program. Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian acknowledged Laird's significant contributions and assured the Northwestern State community that while the season could not be completed, better days lie ahead for Demons football.

In the interim, Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator Weston Glaser will step in as the interim head coach while the athletic department initiates an immediate search for the next head coach. This will ensure the stability and continuity of the football program during this challenging time.

NSU President Dr. Marcus Jones expressed gratitude towards the team, family, friends, and the entire Northwestern State community for their understanding of this difficult decision. He emphasized the university's appreciation for the support received and reassured that the institution would overcome this challenging period.

The cancellation of the 2023 football season at Northwestern State University is an unprecedented move driven by the desire to prioritize the mental wellbeing of the student-athletes. It is a decision made in honor of Ronnie Caldwell's memory and to foster an environment that allows for healing. The Northwestern State community remains hopeful that better days lie ahead for Demons football as they navigate through this challenging time.