— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2021
The NFL world was left stunned late Thursday night with news that Demaryius Thomas was found dead inside of his home in Roswell, Georgia. The Super Bowl champion wide receiver was just 33 years old.
No foul play is expected in Thomas’ death, with family members saying they believe it was related to seizures.
“He had been suffering from seizures for over a year, and we believe he had a seizure when he was showering,” his cousin LaTonya Bonseigneur said, via ESPN.com. “We’re not sure when he died. We just spoke with him yesterday.”
Thomas, who would have turned 34 on Christmas Day, was a 5-time Pro Bowl selection and ranks second all-time in Broncos history in receiving yards (9,055) and receiving touchdowns (60). He was a member of the Super Bowl XLVIII winning team and set a then-Super Bowl record with 13 receptions in the game.
One of the biggest highlights of Thomas’ career was an 80-yard touchdown catch from fellow first-round pick Tim Tebow in the 2011 AFC Wild Card Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It is the longest overtime touchdown in postseason history.
On Friday morning, the Broncos released a statement on his tragic death, along with many fellow teammates including quarterbacks Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Tim Tebow.
Peyton Manning (2-of-2): “I texted with D.T. on Tuesday. He was talking about a TD audible we called vs. Arizona in 2014. Absolutely devasted.”
— Patrick Smyth (@psmyth12) December 10, 2021
“We are devastated and completely heartbroken by the sudden, tragic passing of Demaryius Thomas,” the Broncos said. “D.T. was beloved by our entire organization, his teammates and coaches, and our fans. Recently retiring as a Bronco, we were very much looking forward to celebrating Demaryius for years to come as one of the greatest players in franchise history.”
You can see more reactions from the NFL world below.
Our deepest condolences go out to Thomas’ family and friends during this incredibly tragic and difficult time.
Im so sad to wake up this morning to hear about the passing of my friend Demariyus Thomas. We were all blessed with his humility and positive spirit, and we will all miss him. This photo is from the Hall of Fame this past August, a source of light as always. 🙏 RIP pic.twitter.com/o3hvQN0cRz
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) December 10, 2021
Woke up and saw the really devastating news about my teammate and friend, Demaryius Thomas. So many are going to remember him for his athletic ability… but I’ll be remembering him for his kindness, his smile that would light up a room, and the love he had for those in his life. pic.twitter.com/gNVzmJ503X
— Tim Tebow (@TimTebow) December 10, 2021
There are no words to describe the sudden loss of such a special player and special person.
Demaryius overcame tremendous adversity in his life, growing into a great leader and one of the very best. He was light-hearted, easy going and loved by everyone.
We will miss you, D.T. pic.twitter.com/DE7nGbyti8
— John Elway (@johnelway) December 10, 2021
I'm so sad.. I'm heartbroken. I'm at a total loss . I'm sick…. I'm crying I'm just…. I don't know .The Azzanni family will always love you DT. I'm blessed to have known you. RIP #88 pic.twitter.com/UOmCQK8QR5
— Zach Azzanni COACH Z (@CoachZBroncos) December 10, 2021
DT sat with my son son the entire plane ride home from Super Bowl, held him on his lap on Bus, carried him and hoisted him on fire truck during the parade and celebrated with him as if his own kid. I hope my son remembers 88. pic.twitter.com/tpByZZaklo
— Tyler Polumbus (@Tyler_Polumbus) December 10, 2021
I’m heart broken. This doesn’t seem real but I’m proud of the man and player DT became. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Bronco Country, we’re hurting. https://t.co/tuAlUyQZ8n pic.twitter.com/jFflDkLJ1t
— shannon sharpe (@ShannonSharpe) December 10, 2021
My heart is broken over the death of Demaryius. His humility and kindness outshone his immense talent on the field. His incredible smile will always be with us. May he rest in heavenly light. pic.twitter.com/HeCkP7MZjO
— Ed McCaffrey (@87ed) December 10, 2021
Heartbroken 💔 pic.twitter.com/e3EbU0aPeP
— D-Ware (@DeMarcusWare) December 10, 2021
This hurts, just such a good dude. Never going to forget that smile and good energy. Prayers up to his family. Rest in Power young King!#DemaryiusThomas
— Ryan Clady (@RyanClady) December 10, 2021
Demaryius Thomas’ football feats were incredible, but this is the man I’ll remember: The guy who was kind, always smiling, who was Uncle DT to so many kids, and who was always thoughtful and sincere in our professional relationship. pic.twitter.com/F5q1qDLVEw
— Lindsay Jones (@bylindsayhjones) December 10, 2021
This is who my friend was. Always Smiling. I love you DT #RIP 💔 pic.twitter.com/jL9jI0Qe93
— Brandon McManus (@thekidmcmanus) December 10, 2021
You go from seeing somebody everyday training, kicking it laughing and joking to not even being able to say goodbye. R.I.P BAY BAY I’m more scared now than ever b/c you ended up being right in the end. Until next time 1Love my dawg DT88. we’ll finish our convo when I get there 🙏🏾
— Charles James II (@CJDeuce_) December 10, 2021
Heartbroken. #RIP Young Legend.
DeMaryius Thomas 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 #88 pic.twitter.com/JRT99jUwlx— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) December 10, 2021
It was an honor to play with you. Thank you for always believing in me! Rest easy my brother. pic.twitter.com/18z6ggshBX
— Garett Bolles (@gbolles72) December 10, 2021
I learned so much from this man…one of the most powerful & graceful & smooth athletes I’ve ever been around…and then he was funny & smart & awesome to be around too…I am in tears…I love ya, DT! 🙏💔😢 pic.twitter.com/KXrlucJAQ4
— JoelDreessen (@JoelDreessen) December 10, 2021
Rest easy my brother. Hurt.
— Derek Wolfe (@Derek_Wolfe95) December 10, 2021
