Cal player Ted Agu dies

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — California football player Ted Agu died Friday morning at age 21.

The school announced Agu's death and said its thoughts and prayers were with Agu's family, friends and teammates. The school said it would give more information about the circumstances later.

"This is a very difficult time for our football family," coach Sonny Dykes said. "Ted was a remarkable young man and a member of this family who was highly respected and loved by his teammates and coaching staff. He had an incredible passion for life and will be deeply missed."

Agu was a defensive end from Bakersfield who was going to be a fifth-year senior next season. He played seven games last season, recording six tackles. He played five games the previous two seasons.

The school said it is providing counseling sessions for the other players.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ted's family," athletic director Sandy Barbour said. "This is a very painful time for the entire Cal family; in the days and weeks ahead, my focus will be on providing every member of our community the support and information they need to get through this time. ... We will get through this together."

Agu was remembered fondly by other players. Freshman offensive lineman Erik Bunte called Agu the "best example of a true Cal football player" on his Twitter account.

Freshman defensive back Cameron Walker wrote on his Twitter account that he loved Agu and appreciated all he did to help ease his transition to college.

"You were a blessing to all of us and it hurts so bad to know that I'll never walk next to ur locker again and hear your voice speaking to me," Walker wrote. "You left too soon. But ur in a better place now & we all have another guardian angel watching over us. I love you, Ted. I miss you already. I'll never forget you, Pre-Med Ted. You and your family are in my prayers."