Demaryius Thomas has died, his agent confirmed. The former Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos receiver died at age 33 on Sunday night. His agency, Klutch Sports Group, called the cause of death “unknown” and said a statement would be released later.
It is the second death for a Cleveland Browns player within the last year. Tight end Jordan Cameron, 30, died in August 2018 in a car crash in Georgia, weeks after signing a one-year deal with the team.
“Demaryius’ family, friends and the NFL community have lost a good man and a talented player,” agent Drew Rosenhaus said in a statement. “His legacy will live on, and the Denver Broncos will continue to be proud of his legacy. We will honor his memory by never forgetting his legacy.”
Rosenhaus did not immediately return a request for additional comment.
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News of his death broke Sunday night while Thomas was watching the Cleveland Browns lose to the Indianapolis Colts, a 30-16 Indianapolis victory.
Thomas spent the first 10 years of his career with the Atlanta Falcons, joining the team in 2009 and ending his tenure with them after nine years in the NFL. The 15-year veteran was known for his elite speed on offense, and his clutch moments were memorable, including the game-winning touchdown catch in overtime that sent the Broncos into the playoffs at the conclusion of the 2015 season.
That was followed by Thomas facing the Kansas City Chiefs, who ended up going on to claim the Super Bowl championship.
The Broncos selected Thomas with the 19th overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft. He spent the entire 2009 season with the Broncos, notching 66 receptions for 1,147 yards and six touchdowns in 14 games. He made the Pro Bowl in 2012, ’13 and ’15, and returned to the Pro Bowl in 2016, when he tied for second in receptions with 82.
“Demaryius was one of the most charismatic and dynamic receivers that I’ve ever been around,” former Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning said. “He was tough, smart, competitive and just a pleasure to be around. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”