Former Miami Hurricanes Star Allen Bailey Dead At 37

The Miami Hurricanes football program is dealing with the loss of one of its family members. 

On Wednesday, multiple media outlets confirmed the death of former Hurricanes standout Allen Bailey. He was 37. According to TMZ, it is believed Bailey died of natural causes. 

Bailey played for the Hurricanes from 2007-10. Before leaving, he registered 103 tackles (31 for losses) and 12 sacks in 50 games. He was later drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the third round of the 2011 NFL draft. After nine years in Kansas City, he finished his career with one season for the Atlanta Falcons. 

In his 10-year career, Bailey finished with 248 tackles, 22 sacks and four forced fumbles. 

Bailey at UM with one of the most unique stories in college football. He grew up on an island (Sapelo) off the coast of Georgia. Despite not playing football until high school. he was a heavily recruited player. 

College coaches either had to fly directly to the island or take a ferry for Bailey's recruiting visits. He chose the Hurricanes over several top programs. 

At UM, Bailey was known for his freakish athletic ability. He was one of the most intimidating figures in school history despite a teddy-bear attitude. News of Bailey's death was reported Tuesday night but many felt it was a hoax. 

The news was confirmed Wednesday morning by most outlets. 

HURRICANES HOOPS RANKED IN PRESEASON 

For the first time since the 2023-24 college basketball season, the Miami Hurricanes are ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 preseason poll – slotted at No. 14 with 650 votes.

They are the fourth of four Atlantic Coast Conference programs, behind No. 2 Duke, No. 9 Virginia, and No. 11 Louisville.

Coming off a historic 26-9 turnaround season, second-year head coach Jai Lucas is looking to lead the Hurricanes to greater aspirations. After sneaking up on the rest of the nation, they will be tested by every opponent looking to upset them. Lucas tinkered with the roster, featuring eight transfers, two freshmen, an international signee, and three returners.

The main success from the summer was retaining sophomores Dante Allen and Shelton Henderson. Both had productive and impactful freshman campaigns, returning to Coral Gables with more responsibilities. Henderson is among the candidates to have a breakout season. After averaging 13.8 points on 56.7 percent shooting, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 35 games (all starts), more is expected from the former five-star recruit.