Former Miami Dolphins TE & OL Ronnie Lee dies at age 66

Former NFL offensive lineman/tight end Ronnie Lee passed away on March 26, 2023, at the age of 66. As of right now, there are no details on the cause of his death.

The former lineman played 14 seasons in the NFL, most notably for the Miami Dolphins in 10 seasons.

Lee was Miami's third-round draft pick in the 1979 NFL Draft as he was selected 65th overall. He was a standout at Baylor University.

Lee began his career with the Dolphins and played with them up until the 1982 season. He began his career as a tight end with Miami and then transitioned to the offensive line and played guard and tackle.

Lee joined the Atlanta Falcons during the 1983 season before returning to Miami in 1984. He spent six more seasons with the Dolphins from 1984-1989 and eventually became a starter at multiple positions on the line. He played his last three seasons in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks from 1990-1992.

In a total of 186 appearances, Lee recorded 25 receptions for 167 yards and three touchdowns.

Following his death, the Miami Dolphins announced the news on Twitter.

"We are saddened by the passing of former Miami Dolphins player Ronnie Lee. Our hearts go out to his family & friends."

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Ronnie Lee's early life before his NFL career

Miami Dolphins logo vs Jets

Ronnie Lee was born on December 24, 1956 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Lee attended John Tyler High School in Texas where he was a three-sport athlete. He stuck out on the football field and interestingly enough blocked for NFL Hall-of-Famer Earl Campbell in high school. He helped his team take home the 1973 championship state title.

He then played for the Baylor Bears in college and was selected to the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame as well as the Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame before beginning his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins.

Rest in peace, Ronnie Lee.