University of Oregon football star Spencer Webb died Wednesday after he fell on rock slides and hit his head, officials said.
He was 22 years old.
Webb, who played tight end for the Ducks, fell on the slides west of Triangle Lake, about 35 miles west of the university's campus in Eugene.
Deputies arrived at the scene at 2:30 p.m., and bystanders and paramedics were unable to revive him, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office said.
He was found "approximately 100 yards down a steep trail," and search and rescue personnel assisted with bringing him back to the roadway, authorities said.
“There is no evidence of foul play and his death appears to be accidental," the sheriff's office said.
The rock slides are an area that features large slabs of rock that form natural slides, which turn into small waterfalls and connect to a swimming hole.
The sheriff's office didn't identify Webb, but Oregon head football coach Dan Lanning confirmed his death in a tribute on Twitter.
He wrote: “So full of life in every moment of the day. Your smile and energy will be missed Spencer. I love you!”
NBC News has asked the university's athletics department for comment.
Webb, who hailed from Sacramento, California, was a junior.
News of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes. Teammate Alex Forsyth, an offensive lineman, tweeted: “RIP brother. Fly high.”
San Francisco 49ers star Arik Armstead described Webb as a “great young man with a promising future gone too soon.”
Sacramento Vice Mayor Angelique Ashby called Webb’s death “unbelievable,” adding that he was “too young.”
Chase DeMoor, who plays for the United States Football League's Michigan Panthers, said on Twitter that “words can’t even begin to describe the pit in my heart.” The tweet was accompanied by a video showing Webb throwing a football around on a beach.
"One of the most genuine loyal souls I ever got the privilege to call my brother. Love you Spenc. Rest easy…doing this for you now," he added.
Cyrus Smith, a writer for the college football site SB Nation Underdog Dynasty, tweeted, "Spencer Webb was just one of those Ducks man."
"When he made a play it felt extra special. Not because of his skill but because of his spirit. Loved his spirit. Can’t believe the news," he continued.
