Former Texas A&M Commerce star football player Vili Paea has tragically passed away

We are learning that Vili Paea one of the most dynamic outside linebackers in Division 2 football back in 2020 has passed away.

One of his former coaches Caid Faske posted this on Twitter. We have not heard of the cause of death at this point, but the 6’4 star linebacker will be missed.

Heartbroken to hear about the passing of one of my former Commerce players Vili Paea. Vili had a great attitude daily, a good teammate who was loved by everyone and was a great human being. He was a joy to coach and I was blessed to be his coach. Love you Uce #Family pic.twitter.com/wSoIgY8sIF

— Caid Faske (@CoachFaske) February 22, 2023

Paea was a freak on the football field. I had the pleasure to sit down with the Oakland native. We talked about his most memorable moment in college football and his answer will always stick with me.

We’re playing against A&M Kingsville and it’s 2 minutes left in the 3rd quarter. Boom, it’s 3rd and long. I’ve been catching the rhythm of the snap count and I know when to jump the ball. I explode off the ball, push the tackle then I use my coaches favorite move, the club rip. Boom! I’m through the line and got a free sack. Big shout out and a thank you to my DL coach, Aka the “Freak Maker”. 

Paea was a very intelligent man with a bright future. I asked him would he rather be liked or respected and his answer really hits home now that he has gone to be with the Lord.

I would rather be respected because being liked has a time limit. While being respected lasts forever.

Well Vili, you were respected and liked. You are leaving a great legacy and we at NFL Draft Diamonds are saddened to hear this news. We are praying for the Paea family and hope and pray they can get through this tragic situation.