The New York Giants selected Washburn University defensive back Corey Ballentine in the sixth round of the NFL Draft this weekend.
But it would probably be in bad taste to say that the Giants got their man considering someone else almost got him after the draft when Ballentine was shot over the weekend and, tragically, fellow Washburn player was killed in a shooting Sunday morning in Topeka, Kansas.
Washburn president Jerry Farley mourned the death of Dwane Simmons, 23, in a letter to the school Sunday. Ballentine is expected to make a full recovery, Farley wrote:
"Any time we lose a student it is a sad occasion, but it is particularly poignant to lose a student through such a senseless act," Farley wrote. "Both Dwane and Corey have been great examples and representatives of the football team and of Washburn University in general. This was a terrible way to end a day which should have been a day of celebration and a day to look forward to Dwane's upcoming year at Washburn and the beginning of Corey's professional career."
Simmons, a defensive back who was entering his senior season in 2019. He had played in 22 games over three seasons at Washburn.
"Heartbreaking news about Dwane Simmons," Washburn coach Craig Schurig said. "Dwane is one of the most energetic and well-liked players I have ever coached at Washburn. Dwane's infectious smile and love for football and his teammates was truly inspirational."
Ballentine, a cornerback, was the 2018 Cliff Harris Award winner as the small college defensive player of the year and was one of three Division II players selected to the Senior Bowl. The 23-year-old ran a 4.47 40 at the NFL scouting combine and was one of three cornerbacks drafted by the Giants over the weekend.
Police said an investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
Source:ESPN
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