Paul Oliver dead at 29 after reported suicide

Former San Diego Chargers safety Paul Oliver has died by suicide, according to Kevin Acee of the Union-Tribune. He was 29 years old.

Oliver spent his college career at the University of Georgia. He declared for the supplemental draft in 2007 after being ruled academically ineligible, and the Chargers took him with their fourth-round pick. He played with the Chargers for four years as a reserve, recording four interceptions, 96 tackles and 11 passes defended. He became an unrestricted free agent after the 2011 lockout and signed with the New Orleans Saints, but was released with an injury settlement. The Chargers briefly brought him back, but he had been out of football since 2011.

Oliver is the second former Charger to die from suicide in the last two years after linebacker Junior Seau died in May of 2012.

His family has released a statement.

Statement from Paul Oliver's family: "We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers. We request privacy in the wake of this tragic loss."

— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) September 25, 2013

His college coach, Mark Richt, reacts to the news.

Mark Richt on Paul Oliver's death: "I was crushed this morning when I heard it, quite frankly. I haven't been able to keep it off my mind."

— Seth Emerson (@SethEmerson) September 25, 2013