Former Denver Broncos star Demaryius Thomas. | Facebook/Demaryius Thomas
Former Denver Broncos star Demaryius Thomas. | Facebook/Demaryius Thomas
Former pro bowl receiver Demaryius Thomas was recently found dead in his Roswell home.
FOX 5 Atlanta reports that Thomas, 33, was found dead and his cause of death is believed to be complications from existing medical conditions.
"He had been suffering from seizures for over a year, and we believe he had a seizure when he was showering," Thomas' cousin LaTonya Bonseigneur told FOX News. "He was alone and a friend couldn’t get hold of him, so he called his driver, who has a key because of these seizures, and he went into his home and found him in the shower."
Thomas, known to his friends and loved ones as "Bay Bay," was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and won a Super Bowl with the Denver Broncos. He played with the Broncos for more than eight seasons and last played in the NFL in 2019, appearing in 11 games with 10 starts for the New York Jets.
"We are devastated and completely heartbroken," the Broncos said in a statement, according to FOX News. "We were very much looking forward to celebrating Demaryius for years to come as one of the greatest players in franchise history."
Thomas played football as a receiver while attending Georgia Tech and still ranks sixth in Georgia Tech football history with 120 receptions, 2,339 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns over three seasons. He is best remembered for his AFC wild-card playoff game TD catch from Tim Tebow against Pittsburgh on the first play of overtime.
Off the field, he spent much of his time contributing to the community, especially to youth programs including work with the Broncos Boys and Girls Club, hospital visits, and an annual football camp for kids.
"Demaryius’ humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile will always be remembered by those who knew him and loved him," the statement added. "We have lost an incredible player and a special person in Demaryius Thomas."