The unexpected death of NFL player Demaryius Thomas at age 33
Difficult news in the National Football League (NFL): Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has passed away at age 33.
The NFL confirmed the shocking news on social media.
"The NFL family mourns the tragic loss of Demaryius Thomas and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," wrote the NFL on its official Twitter account. The Denver Broncos also expressed their sympathy.
The Washington Post reported that the lifeless body of the former Broncos catcher had been found at his home in Roswell, Georgia.
Although the police are investigating the causes of his death, several media suggest that the former footballer lost his life due to a disease he's been dealing with since 2019. It had been the result of a traffic accident.
In fact, in June 2021, Demaryius Thomas had announced his retirement after a career of 10 years.
Thomas's retirement came after a year of inactivity. His last season as a professional, in which he played with the Texans, Patriots and Jets, had been 2019/2020.
Demaryius Thomas had been selected by the Denver Broncos at No. 22 in the 2010 Georgia Tech Draft.
His status in the Broncos is legendary, as he is the second player in yards and touchdowns in the entire history of the team. Thomas was only surpassed by Rod Smith.
He spent 9 of his 10 seasons in Denver, where he posted a record 665 receptions, 9,055 yards and 60 touchdowns.
In addition, Demaryius Thomas went on to win the 2015 Super Bowl 50 with the Denver Broncos, in addition to taking four Pro Bowls with the team.
Over the course of his career, Thomas had a record of 63 touchdown passes and 724 receptions for 6,763 yards.
The Denver Broncos released a statement to say farewell to Thomas. They are expected to hold a tribute to the player that was so important to their team.
In addition, colleagues like Russell Wilson have been quick to pay tribute to him on social media. "Heartbroken. Rest in peace, Young Legend," the Seahawks quarterback wrote to him.
For his part, Owen Daniels, Super Bowl champion with Demaryius Thomas in 2015, described how painful his team mate's passing was. "I'm Heartbroken. I love you DT."
"It was an honor to have had the opportunity to play beside you. Thank you for always believing in me, DT! Rest easy brother," Denver Broncos left tackle Garett Bolles commented on Twitter.
Anonymous fans from across the NFL have also dedicated kind words to Demaryius Thomas on social media. He is a legend who left the game and the world too soon.