The Detroit Lions community is mourning the loss of one of its longtime defensive standouts.
According to Fox News, Tracy Scroggins, a former linebacker who spent his entire NFL career in Detroit, has died at the age of 56, his family announced Monday.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Tracy Scroggins,” his family said in a statement sent to TMZ.
Those closest to him remembered far more than his accomplishments on the field.
“Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance,” the statement continued. “While many knew him for his career as a professional football player in the NFL, those closest to him knew him as a kind-hearted and generous man who cared deeply for his family and friends.”
His family cited possible chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, in confirming his death.
Researchers have linked the degenerative brain condition to repeated head trauma and concussions.
“Playing in the NFL gave Tracy the opportunity to pursue his lifelong dream and to rise from poverty,” the statement added. “However, unfortunately, the NFL was also ultimately the cause of his untimely demise. Tracy spent every moment of retirement courageously battling the devastating effects of CTE. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.”
It was not immediately clear whether his brain would be tested to confirm CTE.
Scroggins was among a group of former players who filed concussion-related lawsuits against the NFL before the league’s 2015 concussion settlement.
A native of Oklahoma, Scroggins was selected by the Lions in the second round of the 1992 NFL Draft after playing college football at Tulsa. He went on to spend all 10 seasons of his professional career in Detroit.
During that decade, Scroggins became one of the franchise’s most productive pass rushers. He recorded 60½ sacks, ranking seventh in Lions history.Before his football career took off, Scroggins also competed in basketball and track during his high school years, showcasing the athleticism that would later define his time in the NFL.
