Tracy Scroggins’ Cause Of Death At 56, Ex-Lions LB’s Family Blames NFL For His Chronic Disease

Former Detroit Lions linebacker and defensive end, Tracy Scroggins died on February 9, 2026, at the age of 56. Team Lions officially announced his passing on Monday evening. Tracy Scroggins’ family revealed that he had been courageously battling a chronic ailment during his NFL retirement period, which ultimately claimed his life. The bereaved family announced his passing with immense grief, praising the man whose life was marked by strength and perseverance. As the news broke, an outpouring of condolences was seen from his fans. Here’s everything we know about the reason for his demise.

What was Tracy Scroggins’ cause of death?

While the Detroit Lions have not released a specific cause of Tracy Scroggins’ death, his family reportedly attributed his untimely demise to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). In a statement released to media outlet, TMZ, his family shared that he spent “every moment of retirement courageously battling the devastating effects of CTE” following his 10-year NFL career. They explicitly cited the NFL as Tracy’s reason for demise, as he suffered from repeated head trauma from the gameplay. Prior to his passing, his attorney noted that he suffered from severe memory loss, depression, and bouts of anger.

In 2016, Tracy Scroggins filed a lawsuit against the NFL after receiving a preliminary diagnosis of CTE, claiming the football league concealed the risks of permanent brain damage. In his later years, Tracy became an advocate for brain injury awareness, shifting his focus from the game to the long-term well-being of fellow players. The former linebacker’s family admitted that the NFL served as his redemption from poverty; however, they didn’t think that it would ultimately result in his early death at 56. Tracy’s “lifelong dream” of affluence was fulfilled, but at the cost of his life. His family’s statement could be read as:

“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’ family described him as a person who valued relationships

In the same statement, Tracy Scroggins’ family described him as a devoted father and loyal friend who valued personal connections over his professional accolades. While many fans recognised him for his 10-season NFL career and 60.5 sacks, those closest to him remembered him as a “kind-hearted and generous man” who cared deeply for his family and friends. The family was experiencing “profound sadness” as a pure soul like Tracy left the world too soon. Their exact words were:

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Tracy Scroggins. 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.”

More about Tracy Scroggins

Tracy Scroggins was a standout defensive end and linebacker who played his entire 10-year NFL career for the Detroit Lions from 1992 to 2001. He is remembered as one of the most prolific pass rushers in franchise history, ranking third all-time in Lions sacks with 60.5. He was selected by the Lions in the second round (53rd overall) of the 1992 NFL Draft. Tracy was a key member of the defense that helped the Lions reach the playoffs five times during his tenure.

Tracy’s best statistical season reportedly came in 1995, when he recorded career highs in 9.5 sacks and 45 tackles, forced two fumbles, and returned one for a touchdown. He recorded at least six sacks in seven different seasons. In 2019, he was ranked as the 90th greatest player in Detroit Lions history. His untimely demise at just 56 years of age deprived the world not just of a star former player but also of a wonderful human being.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to Tracy Scroggins’ family as they deal with his loss.

Also Read: Annie Guthrie’s Salary Revealed, Is It Enough To Pay Savannah Guthrie’s Mother, Nancy’s Ransom?