“One of Us, Always” - Philly Football Family Devastated After Corey Adams Shot Dead at 18

A wave of grief has swept through the Philadelphia football community after heartbreaking news from Tennessee. Corey Adams, just 18 and on the cusp of a promising career, was shot and killed Saturday night in Cordova.

The incident occurred at 10:14 p.m. outside a residential area, sending shockwaves through two families—those of the five injured, and above all, the family of the young defensive end. First responders found Adams inside a car, gravely wounded. Despite urgent efforts, he could not be saved.

For those in Philly and beyond who knew him, Corey was more than just a top recruit. He was the pride of Edna Karr High School, where he helped deliver a Louisiana state championship and earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024.

His journey had only just begun. Adams, who wore his Philly roots with pride, had joined Ole Miss as a freshman defensive end. The entire football family watched with excitement as he took his first steps on the college stage.

Ole Miss released a statement Sunday, expressing deep sorrow and urging respect for the Adams family’s privacy during this unimaginable loss. Teammates and coaches, stunned, have described him as “humble, driven, and truly one of us.”

"One of Us, Always" is the phrase echoing throughout locker rooms and group chats in Philadelphia and at Ole Miss. Adams’s legacy is more than stats or accolades—it’s the brotherhood, the spirit, and the inspiration he brought to every field he touched.

For the city of Philadelphia, the pain runs deep. A rising star, a local son, gone too soon. Tonight, the entire football world mourns with his family, teammates, and friends.

Stay tuned to ESPN.