Former NFL player Jordan Devey dies at 38 as family shares tribute
The former Patriots, 49ers and Bills player was remembered for both his football career and his dedication to his family
Former NFL offensive lineman Jordan Devey has died at the age of 38, with his family confirming he died by suicide just days before what would have been his 15th wedding anniversary.
Devey's wife, Linsey Devey, announced his death in an emotional Instagram tribute, sharing photos from their wedding and from his final days in hospital as she reflected on their life together.
"Today would have been our 15th year anniversary," she wrote. "We have filled the walls of our homes and hearts with countless memories, joys, struggles, and triumphs."
She also paid tribute to the couple's four children, remembering Devey as a devoted husband and father whose absence has left the family heartbroken.
A GoFundMe campaign launched to support the family described the former athlete as a "devoted husband," "loving father" and "cherished member" of the football community, adding that donations would help ease the financial burden as Linsey and their children focus on healing.
Devey died on July 21, according to ESPN and Fox 13.
Over a seven-season NFL career, Devey played 44 games for five teams, including the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills, before retiring in 2021.
He later settled in Idaho, where he coached football at a local high school.
Following his death, Devey's parents, Leslie and Kerry, said they believe he may have been living with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative condition associated with repeated head impacts in contact sports.
However, Kerry Devey told Fox 13 that, because of the circumstances surrounding his son's death, the family may never receive a definitive diagnosis.
The couple also used the opportunity to encourage anyone struggling with their mental health to seek support.
"We want people to understand that it's okay to reach out," Leslie Devey told Fox 13. "Help is there, and there's nothing wrong with you for reaching out. You're not fighting the battle alone."
