Google News Late Demaryius Thomas posthumously diagnosed with Stage 2 CTE
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Super Bowl winning wide receiver Demaryius Thomas has been posthumously diagnosed with Stage 2 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease. Thomas, 33, was found at his home on December 9 and as the cause of death was listed a seizure due to complication of injuries Thomas suffered in his 2019 car crash.
On Tuesday, Ken Bolson of The New York Times reported that Thomas was posthumously diagnosed with Stage 2 CTE. “He had two different conditions in parallel,” Dr. Ann McKee told Belson. “CTE itself does not cause death.
You don’t die from CTE. What CTE does is it changes your behavior and your personality”. Thomas' mother seemingly confirmed Dr. McKee's claims as she revealed her son was battling mood changes. “His mood would change, and he would also isolate himself sometimes,” Thomas’ mother, Katina Stuckey Smith, told ABC News.
“He was, like, ‘Mom, I don’t know what’s going on with my body. You know, I gotta get myself together,’ and he said, ‘I don’t feel like myself anymore.' ”
Thomas was a Denver Broncos legend
Thomas was a first round pick in the 2010 NFL draft and he spent his first nine seasons in the NFL with the Broncos.
After his tenure with the Broncos ended, he had short stints with the Houston Texans, New England Patriots and New York Jets. Thomas was one of the most beloved Broncos players during his time in Denver and the team and its fanbase were absolutely devastated after their former star was found dead.
"We are devastated and completely heartbroken by the sudden, tragic passing of Demaryius Thomas," the Broncos said in a statement. "D.T. was beloved by our entire organization, his teammates and coaches, and our fans. Recently retiring as a Bronco, we were very much looking forward to celebrating Demaryius for years to come as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
During nine seasons in Denver, Demaryius established himself as a dominant, record-setting wide receiver who was an instrumental part of two championship runs and our victory in Super Bowl 50. His legacy as a Bronco extended far beyond the playing field as a caring, generous member of our community.
D.T. loved giving back — especially spending time with children — and impacted countless lives through the Broncos Boys and Girls Club, hospital visits, his annual football camp and many other genuine interactions.
Demaryius' humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile will always be remembered by those who knew him and loved him. We have lost an incredible player and a special person in Demaryius Thomas. Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to the Thomas family and all who are grieving this unimaginable loss."