Former Detroit Lions standout Tracy Scroggins, who dominated the field for a full decade with the team, has died at just 56 years old. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Monday, telling TMZ they believe the longtime defensive lineman’s death was the result of a brutal battle with chronic traumatic encephalopathy, better known as CTE.
In an emotional statement, the Scroggins family remembered him as far more than an NFL powerhouse.
“Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend,” they wrote, adding that although fans knew him for his sacks and on-field grit, those closest to him knew him as a gentle, generous soul who cared deeply for everyone around him.
The family didn’t shy away from acknowledging what they believe contributed to his decline, saying the NFL both lifted him out of poverty and ultimately led to the health issues that defined his retirement years. “Tracy spent every moment of retirement courageously battling the devastating effects of CTE,” their statement continued. “While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.”
CTE can only be officially diagnosed after death, and it’s not yet known if the family plans to have Scroggins’ brain studied.
Scroggins was among nearly 5,000 former players who sued the NFL over concussion-related injuries prior to the league’s major settlement in 2015. He later filed an additional claim in 2016.
Drafted out of Tulsa in 1992, Scroggins carved out a major place in Lions history, racking up 60.5 sacks—still the seventh-highest total in the franchise’s record books.
The Lions honored him on social media Monday night, writing, “We join the NFL community in mourning the loss of Lions Legend Tracy Scroggins.”
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