Former NFL defensive end Tracy Scroggins died last week at 56. His family believes CTE is to blame for his death.
Scroggins’ family issued a statement to TMZ expressing that football helped the former Lions star in some ways but hurt him in others.
“Playing in the NFL gave Tracy the opportunity to pursue his lifelong dream and to rise from poverty. However, unfortunately, the NFL was also ultimately the cause of his untimely demise,” the statement said.
“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.”
Scroggins spent all 10 of his NFL seasons with the Lions after being drafted by Detroit in the second round of the 1992 NFL Draft.
He retired in 2001 after recording 60.5 sacks across 142 games in his NFL career.
“We join the NFL community in mourning the loss of Lions Legend Tracy Scroggins, who played his entire 10-year career in Detroit (1992-2001),” the Lions said in a statement.
An Oklahoma native, Scroggins attended Checotah High School and played football, basketball and track. He then starred at Tulsa before being a second-round NFL draft pick.
During his 10 seasons with the Lions, Scroggins’ best year came in 1995 when he recorded 44 tackles, 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
“Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance,” the statement from his family 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.”