Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaq Barrett showed off some new ink Tuesday — a portrait of his 2-year-old daughter Arrayah, who drowned in the family’s swimming pool on April 30 after falling in.
Just two months following the tragic death of their daughter, Barrett and his wife Jordanna announced that they are expecting once again. Barrett and his wife have three other children, a daughter and two boys, and they’ll welcome another daughter in February 2024.
“A few weeks after our sweet girls heaven day, Shaquil and I found out we were expecting!” Jordanna Barrett wrote on Instagram. “I just know Arrayah had a special hand in picking this sweet girl to add to our family!”
The couple have already selected a name for the family’s newcomer: Allanah Ray.
“God works in such mysterious ways, but I will never ever doubt his plans for my life,” the post’s caption continues. “Through the worst of the worst, he turns and uses ALL things for good. I trust when it’s the hardest and praise him through all things good.”
The Tampa Bay Times first reported news of Arrayah’s tragic passing. Police in Tampa responded to a call regarding a child who fell into a pool. Arrayah was transported to a nearby hospital following the incident. Despite taking life-saving measures, she passed away at the hospital.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family,” the Buccaneers said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time. While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles on Shaq Barrett’s presence at minicamp: ‘I’m sure it’s not easy’
Just two months after the tragedy, Barrett was present for his team’s start to mandatory minicamp. The Buccaneers are fully behind Barrett, with head coach Todd Bowles commending him for showing up in a difficult time in his personal life.
“That’s a testament to him,” Bowles said, via NFL.com. “Shaq is one of the mentally toughest character guys I know. To have him out here still trying to get ready — I’m sure it’s not easy — but he’s handling it and we’re behind him.”
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