Tony Siragusa, former Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts lineman, died on Wednesday. He was 55.
Confirming the NFL legend’s death, his broadcast agent Jim Ornstein said, “This is a really sad day. Tony was way more than my client, he was family. My heart goes out to Tony’s loved ones.”
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The cause of death was not immediately available.
Siragusa, who played 12 NFL seasons, was also known as ‘Goose’. He represented the Colts for seven and Ravens for five. Baltimore’s 2000 team won the Super Bowl behind a defense that included Siragusa, Ray Lewis and Sam Adams.
The 55-year-old came to Baltimore as a free agent in 1997 and teamed up with Adams to form an imposing defensive tackle tandem. In the Ravens’ 2000 championship season, the 6-foot-3, 340-pound Siragusa was sixth among Baltimore defenders with 75 tackles. He finished his career with 22 sacks.
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Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and his wife, Renee, described Siragusa as a ‘larger than life’ personality.
“Renee and I are stunned and heartbroken to learn about the sudden passing of Tony Siragusa. He was a special person and clearly one of the most popular players in Ravens history. Tony’s larger-than-life personality made an enormous impact on our organization and throughout the Baltimore community,”the Bisciotti’s statement said.
“On the football field, Goose was a difference-maker who contributed immeasurably to the success of many great Ravens defenses, including the record-setting 2000 Super Bowl team. Our deepest prayers and sympathies go out to Kathy, their three children and the rest of the Siragusa family. This is a tremendously sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. We appreciate everyone who has expressed an outpouring of support for our players, coaches and staff.”
Earlier in the day, Jaylon Ferguson, a linebacker for Baltimore, died at the age of 26.
“Goose was quite a character, but he was one of our leaders on the 2000 Super Bowl team. He was probably one of the best run-stoppers to play for our defense over the years. My heart breaks for Kathy, Samantha, Anthony Jr. and Ava. They are in my prayers,” Ravens Executive Vice President Ozzie Newsome said.