The former Ohio State University star and Heisman Trophy finalist was just 24.
Authorities have so far released few details about the circumstances of his death. Here’s what we know and don’t know about the fatal crash, his short-lived career and how those who knew him have reacted.
Haskins was trying to cross Interstate 595’s westbound lanes, near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Broward County, when the dump truck hit him, the Florida Highway Patrol said.
The incident was reported shortly after 6:30 a.m., the patrol said. He had been “walking on (the highway) for unknown reasons,” the patrol said in a news release.
Further details about what led up to the incident were not available.
In recent days, Haskins was in South Florida working out with some Steelers teammates, as captured in Instagram stories from Haskins and running back Najee Harris.
His short-lived football career
Haskins was poised to enter his fourth year in the NFL as a backup for the Steelers after a stellar college career.
How teammates and coaches are remembering him
Teammates and coaches who knew Haskins offered their condolences and remembrances since his death.
Ohio State coach Ryan Day said Monday members of the team were hurting and announced they will honor Haskins at its spring game on Saturday.
“When you think about Dwayne you just think about the compassion he had, certainly for all of his teammates and his friends. He always took time after practice to be around family members, kids,” he said. “He meant a lot to my family and he meant a lot to this program, and he’s going to be sorely missed.
“It’s so close to Saturday morning right now. It’s still hard to kind of get our feet underneath us and see clearly right now. We all are hurting,” he added.
“His smile was infectious and he was a guy you wanted to be around,” Hewyard wrote. “We are all in shock about losing him. We are going to miss the heck out of him as well. We lost you way too early. Luckily I got a chance to get to know you. RIP DH.”
Haskins’ head coach in Washington, Ron Rivera, said Saturday he was “absolutely heartbroken” to hear of his former player’s passing.
“He came to work everyday with a smile on his face and energy and love in his heart. I really enjoyed his passion and love for the game and wanting to learn and be the best. His smile and zeal for life will be missed!,” Roethlisberger said. “I’ll say it again just like I told you to your face, I still wish I could throw the ball like you,” he added.