He spent his entire 10-year career with the Lions.
Former star NFL defensive end and linebacker Tracy Scroggins, who spent his entire 10-year career with the Detroit Lions, has tragically passed away.
In a statement issued to TMZ Sports, Tracy Scroggins’ family announced his untimely passing at the age of 56. The cause of death wasn’t revealed, but the family claims that he suffered from Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). It can only be definitively diagnosed during autopsy.
Detroit drafted Scroggins in the second round (53rd overall) in 1992. He spent 10 seasons with the Lions before retiring after the 2001 season.
The statement from the Scroggins family to TMZ Sports can be read below:
“Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance. While many knew him for his career as a professional football player in the NFL, those closest to him knew him as a kind-hearted and generous man who cared deeply for his family and friends.
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.”
Tracy Scroggins led the Lions to five playoff appearances during his 10-year career (1993, 1994, 1995, 1997 and 1999). Before he turned pro in 1992, Detroit had only made the postseason once in the previous eight years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Scroggins’ family, friends and the Detroit Lions organization during this difficult time.
Tracy Scroggins Is Seventh On Lions’ Sack Leaderboard
Scroggins logged 60.5 sacks during his 10-year career. This puts him 10th on the Lions’ all-time leaderboard, behind only Alex Karras (100), Robert Porcher (95.5), Al Baker (74), Roger Brown (63.5), Mike Cofer (62.5) and Larry Hand (62.5).
Only 11 Lions finished with more forced fumbles than Scroggins, who had eight. He posted at least 6.5 sacks in seven of his 10 NFL campaigns, including a career-high 9.5 in the 1995 season. Scroggins also had one interception, six pass breakups, seven fumble recoveries and 321 combined tackles.
Legendary running back Barry Sanders carried the Lions’ offense during the ’90s. But Scroggins was a rock on that defense, one of the few difference-makers Detroit had on that side of the ball during the Sanders era.
After his retirement in 2002, Detroit wouldn’t make the playoffs again until 2011.
