The NFL community is mourning the loss of a longtime Detroit Lions standout.
Former Detroit Lions defender Tracy Scroggins has died at the age of 56 after spending his entire playing career with the franchise.
His passing has prompted reflection on both his impact on the field and the challenges he faced after football.
Detroit Lions announce passing of Tracy Scroggins
The Detroit Lions confirmed Scroggins’ death in a statement, honoring him as a key figure in the team’s history.
The organization said it joined the wider NFL community in mourning his loss.
Scroggins was selected in the second round of the 1992 NFL Draft out of Tulsa and went on to play 10 seasons in Detroit.
He appeared in 142 games and recorded 60.5 sacks, ranking seventh on the Lions’ all-time list.
Family details health struggles after retirement
In a statement, Tracy Scroggins’ family described him as a devoted father and valued member of their lives.
They said he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy and battled its effects throughout his retirement.
“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.”
“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.”
The family noted that while football allowed Scroggins to achieve his dream, it also contributed to his health decline.
Scroggins was among thousands of former players who filed concussion-related claims against the NFL following the league’s settlement.
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