Tracy Scroggins, a former professional football player who played his entire 10-season career with the Detroit Lions, died on Monday at the age of 56. In a statement to TMZ, his family confirmed his death and said they believed it was the result of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). “Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance,” the statement reads. “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 said that while playing in the NFL was his “lifelong dream,” it was “also ultimately the cause of his untimely demise.” Scroggins “spent every moment of retirement courageously battling the devastating effects of CTE,” the family’s statement reads. Scroggins joined the NFL in 1992 as a defensive end and linebacker, drafted by the Detroit Lions as the 53rd overall pick. After 142 games, Scroggins retired in 2001, having recorded 321 tackles, 60.5 sacks, and one interception. “While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing he is finally at peace.”
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