Former NFL safety Matt Stevens, who played for five teams across eight seasons, has passed away at the age of 51. Stevens died at his home in North Carolina, leaving behind his parents, brother, and two children.
Stevens was a third-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in the 1996 NFL Draft. He spent parts of three seasons with Washington in the late 1990s. He played 33 games for the Redskins, making five starts. Stevens recorded seven interceptions, including six in 1999. After Washington, he joined the New England Patriots. He was part of the Patriots’ first Super Bowl-winning roster in 2001.
A Career Spanning Five Teams
After leaving the Washington Redkins, Stevens became a crucial defensive back for the Patriots. The Houston Texans selected him in the 2002 expansion draft. He played 108 career games with 42 starts. Stevens recorded 301 tackles and 13 interceptions. He had stints with the Bills, Eagles, Redskins, Patriots, and Texans.
Stevens faced immense adversity after a tragic motorcycle accident in 2007 left him paralyzed from the waist down. Through years of rehabilitation, he regained mobility in 2011 with the help of specialized leg braces, according to the Houston Chronicle’s Eddie Maisonet III.
His dedication and contributions to the game will not be forgotten. As former teammates and fans reflect on his career, Stevens’ impact on and off the field remains a lasting legacy.
