Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has died at age 33.
According to reports, on Thursday night in Roswell, Georgia, police said that Thomas was found deceased in his home. Preliminary information, according to police, indicated Thomas’ death might have resulted from a medical issue.
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
Suffered From Seizures
“He had been suffering from seizures for over a year, and we believe he had a seizure when he was showering,” said LaTonya Bonseigneur to the Associated Press. She was a first cousin who grew up with Thomas like a sister.
“We’re not sure when he died. We just spoke with him yesterday. “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.”
Additionally, former teammates revealed that Thomas possibly had seizures in recent months.
Demaryius Thomas, former Denver Broncos WR and Super Bowl champion, was found dead Thursday at the age of 33 pic.twitter.com/TEiMtu6OhT
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 10, 2021
Broncos Nation Remorse
The Broncos released a statement on Friday.
“We are devastated and completely heartbroken by the sudden, tragic passing of Demaryius Thomas,” the Broncos organization 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.
“Demaryius’ humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile will always be remembered by those who knew him and loved him.”
NFL players react to the news of Demaryius Thomas' death 🙏 @brgridiron pic.twitter.com/v7AVZmKPSL
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 10, 2021
A Player’s Player
The 33-year-old announced his retirement from the NFL in June. In a video announcement, he displayed a peace sign and the smile that defined his character.
“I’m Demaryius Thomas. I finally came to a decision to hang it up. … I’m going to retire and I’m going to retire a Denver Bronco,” he said, adding, “I’m done and I did well.”
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Thomas played college football at Georgia Tech in Atlanta. The school posted a picture with the caption “Rest in peace, Bay Bay,” which was Thomas’ nickname.
Heartbroken. #RIP Young Legend.
DeMaryius Thomas 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 #88 pic.twitter.com/JRT99jUwlx— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) December 10, 2021
Alma Mater’s Loss
“I know I speak on behalf of the entire Georgia Tech football family when I say that we are heartbroken by the news of Demaryius’s passing,” Georgia Tech coach Geoff Collins said in a statement.
“I first got to know Bay Bay during his recruiting process and was fortunate to be a member of the Tech football staff during his true freshman season in 2006. We have grown increasingly closer through the years. I will always remember what a thrill it was for our players when he was able to stop by and spend some time with us during fall camp this past August. Bay Bay was truly one of my favorite people. I will miss him terribly.”
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
A Legend Mourns
Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, who played with Thomas for four seasons, also released a statement early Friday.
“DT was a better person than he was a player, and he was a Hall of Fame player,” Manning said. “That tells you how good of a person he was. He treated my kids like they were his own. He was there for every teammate’s charity event.” Manning added that he was “absolutely” devastated by Thomas’ death.
Most people saw what Demaryius Thomas could do on the field. Off the field, he was even more special.
These are just some of the videos I still have on my phone that swore I never would delete. Being around little kids was when Demaryius seemed the happiest. pic.twitter.com/E1UIXigpIJ
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) December 10, 2021
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