Ravens edge rusher Jaylon Ferguson has died at the age of 26. The Ravens announced his death on Wednesday.
"We are profoundly saddened by the tragic passing of Jaylon Ferguson," the Ravens said in a statement. "He was a kind, respectful young man with a big smile and infectious personality. We express our heartfelt condolences to Jaylon's family and friends as we mourn a life lost much too soon."
We are profoundly saddened by the tragic passing of Jaylon Ferguson. pic.twitter.com/ylBvLEzjer
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) June 22, 2022
The cause of Ferguson's death has not yet been revealed, though Baltimore Police said there were no signs of trauma or foul play, per ESPN. A police spokesperson said that investigators are considering the possibility that Ferguson died from an overdose.
Ferguson's agent, Safarrah Lawson, said in a statement that Ferguson's family "asks for your prayers and privacy during this trying time.”
The Ravens selected Ferguson in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft after a standout career at Louisiana Tech. Known affectionately by his nickname of "Sack Daddy," Ferguson racked up an FBS-record 45 sacks during his collegiate career. That included a whopping 17.5 during his final season with the Bulldogs.
At the NFL level, Ferguson played in 38 games for Baltimore. He logged 67 tackles and 4.5 sacks while making 10 starts.
Ferguson's teammates, NFL media personalities and other athletes took to social media to pay tribute to him after his death.
I can’t believe this. Just absolutely tragic. RIP #SackDaddy https://t.co/BA8gGahPAF
— Pat Ricard 🥞 (@PRic508) June 22, 2022
rest easy 45 🕊🖤
— pro. (@jamesproche3) June 22, 2022
💔 my young life . Love you bro https://t.co/OIe33wj94v
— Tony Jefferson II (@_tonyjefferson) June 22, 2022
My brother. I love you man 💔
— 🦈 (@Patrickqueen_) June 22, 2022
The last person I talked to leaving the facility. Spent almost everyday in the sauna together tryna see who gone last longer. Said it was our turn this year man. Ima miss you bro💔
— 🦈 (@Patrickqueen_) June 22, 2022
Always had REAL convo's!! Joked together, laughed together, prayed together, fought on the field together!! Just a genuine spirit. Love this man! Will miss you bro 💜 https://t.co/yVKZRRNwXa
— Josh Bynes (@bynestime56) June 22, 2022
We are heartbroken to hear of the tragic loss of Jaylon Ferguson. The NFL family sends our deepest condolences to his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/LYEHSrB7JY
— NFL (@NFL) June 22, 2022
Absolutely tragic. I always enjoyed being around Jaylon. He had big goals and a great personality. RIP, Jaylon. https://t.co/Q4r6hsFIg6
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) June 22, 2022
Just shocking news. Jaylon Ferguson was one of the best players I had a chance to see play in college.
— Eric Henry (@EricCHenry_) June 22, 2022
R.I.P. https://t.co/Pbudn4inmV
Jaylon Ferguson was just 26 years old and preparing for his fourth NFL season. https://t.co/2vBjD5zgwq
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) June 22, 2022
Horrific, tragic news. I have no words.
— Ebony Bird (@Ebony_Bird) June 22, 2022
RIP Jaylon Ferguson ❤️ https://t.co/ZSe4wRp9tk
Very sad news: Ravens announce outside linebacker Jaylon Ferguson has died. He was 26 years old. https://t.co/Bd1kDOIGPd
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) June 22, 2022
Absolutely no words. Truly shocked and saddened
— Kevin Oestreicher (@koestreicher34) June 22, 2022
Rest in Peace Jaylon Ferguson
Life ain’t fair. RIP Sack Daddy 💔@Ravens
— Jalen Robinson (@JayyBird15) June 22, 2022
Profoundly sad https://t.co/g6ttN1BSAd
— trey wingo (@wingoz) June 22, 2022
