The Pittsburgh Steelers will be without rookie cornerback Donte Kent for their Week 10 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, as the young defensive back has been granted leave following a heartbreaking family tragedy in

Louisville, Kentucky.

Kent’s uncle — a longtime worker at an industrial facility near the site of the UPS MD-11 cargo plane crash — was among those critically injured when the aircraft exploded shortly after takeoff from

Muhammad Ali International Airport earlier this week.

The crash, one of the deadliest in recent years, killed at least 14 people and injured more than a dozen others. The impact and fire destroyed several nearby warehouses and buildings, leaving families and first responders in shock across Louisville.

According to team officials, Donte Kent immediately requested to sit out this week’s game to return home and be with his uncle, whom he calls “the man who raised me when my dad couldn’t.”

“He raised me when my father couldn’t — he’s my second dad,” Kent said in an emotional statement. “I know my team needs me, but right now, he needs me more. I’m grateful to the organization for allowing me to be there for the man who’s always been there for me.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin fully supported Kent’s decision, emphasizing that football comes second to family. “There are moments when football doesn’t matter,” Tomlin said. “He’s exactly where he needs to be — with the people he loves. Our prayers are with Donte and everyone affected by this tragedy.”

Steelers teammates have rallied behind their rookie corner, sharing messages under the hashtag #PrayForDonte, while the organization has provided financial and emotional assistance to his family.

As Louisville continues to heal from the devastating crash,

Donte Kent’s story has become a poignant reminder of what truly matters beyond the game — that family and love will always mean more than football.