On Thursday, former NFL star Demaryius Thomas was found dead in his home in Georgia at the age of 33. According to police, preliminary findings imply his death was from a medical issue. There is currently no information on what that medical issue was.
The former wide receiver made his mark in the NFL both on and off the field. On the field he helped the Denver Broncos win a Super Bowl in 2015 as their top receiver. The five-time Pro Bowler officially retired in June, but last played in 2015.
Thomas spent the majority of his career in Denver, playing eight seasons with the Broncos alongside stars like Peyton Manning. While in the Mile High city he racked up receiving numbers that rank towards the top in franchise history. He is second all-time in receiving yards and touchdowns in Denver and third in career catches.
Thomas made his way to Denver by way of Georgia Tech. He was drafted at No. 22 overall in 2010.
Upon hearing the news of Thomas' shocking death, the NFL world took to social media to pay tribute and reflect on what he brought to the game of football. Players who were privileged to play alongside him not only noted his talent, but his positive attitude and the qualities he had that transcended the game.
Here are some of their tributes:
The Broncos wrote, "We are devastated and completely heartbroken. Demaryius' humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile will always be remembered by those who knew him and loved him."
We are devastated and completely heartbroken.
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2021
Demaryius' humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile will always be remembered by those who knew him and loved him. pic.twitter.com/0GLZIr6UP3
Georgia Tech posted a photo from Thomas' college days.
Rest in peace, Bay Bay 💔 pic.twitter.com/1Qqa1fiYWo
— Georgia Tech Football (@GeorgiaTechFB) December 10, 2021
The NFL wrote, "The NFL family mourns the tragic loss of Demaryius Thomas and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
The NFL family mourns the tragic loss of Demaryius Thomas and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/rAXYguAUy1
— NFL (@NFL) December 10, 2021
Tom Brady, who only had Thomas as a teammate for a short time, said, "Im so sad to wake up this morning to hear about the passing of my friend Demariyus Thomas. We were all blessed with his humility and positive spirit, and we will all miss him. This photo is from the Hall of Fame this past August, a source of light as always."
Im so sad to wake up this morning to hear about the passing of my friend Demariyus Thomas. We were all blessed with his humility and positive spirit, and we will all miss him. This photo is from the Hall of Fame this past August, a source of light as always. 🙏 RIP pic.twitter.com/o3hvQN0cRz
— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) December 10, 2021
Terrell Davis wrote that he was honored to know Thomas.
I'm just shocked to hear that Demaryius Thomas has died. Gone way to soon. Honored to have known you brutha. R.I.P!
— Terrell Davis (@Terrell_Davis) December 10, 2021
Former Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall posted a photo with his former teammate.
Love forever bro 🕊 pic.twitter.com/eUQDBR8WP5
— Brandon Marshall (@BMarshh) December 10, 2021
Darrelle Revis shared the impact Thomas had on his son when Thomas was with the New York Jets.
I am devastated right now. We spoke back in 2019 and you told me how excited you were to be a NY Jet. You gave my son a high five during pre-game. Appreciate you making his day. You were a great player. Prayers to you and your family. Rest Easy! @DemaryiusThomas pic.twitter.com/0EQQZndA0p
— Darrelle Revis (@Revis24) December 10, 2021
The Jets also put out a statement as a team.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) December 10, 2021
Tim Tebow said while many will remember Thomas for his football skills, he will remember DT for "his kindness, his smile that would light up a room, and the love he had for those in his life."
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
Russell Wilson called Thomas a legend.
Heartbroken. #RIP Young Legend.
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) December 10, 2021
DeMaryius Thomas 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 #88 pic.twitter.com/JRT99jUwlx
Julian Edelman shared a memory from the short time Thomas played with the New England Patriots.
Devastating news. I only played with DT for a couple weeks, but he immediately made an impression. Will be missed by many 💔 pic.twitter.com/4iWe0gQ1ku
— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) December 10, 2021
JJ Watt says the first thing that comes to mind when he thinks about Thomas is his smile and positive energy.
Way way too young.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) December 10, 2021
The first image of DT that pops in my head will always be that smile and positive energy.
Rest In Peace brother.
🙏🏼 https://t.co/zBmjFexhzj