Former NFL wide receiver Mike Williams, renowned for his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has passed away at the age of 36. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers officially announced his unfortunate demise on Tuesday.
Construction Site Accident Leads to Tragedy
Mike Williams sustained severe injuries in a construction site accident just last week, as reported by NBC Sports. This unfortunate incident ultimately led to his untimely passing.
Condolences from the Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released a statement expressing their heartfelt condolences to Mike Williams’ family and friends. The team expressed profound sadness over his loss, which deeply affected their organization, former teammates, and fans.
Family Grief
As of Tuesday afternoon, Mike Williams’ family members remained unavailable for comment. His mother, Mary Rosenthal, had previously shared the family’s distressing journey. She mentioned that her family was in dire need of a “Hail Mary” after her son was taken off a ventilator last Friday, according to a report from CBS affiliate WIVB in Buffalo, New York.
Accident Details
Mary Rosenthal revealed that Mike Williams had been involved in electrical work when a steel beam fell on his head the previous month. Initially, he walked away from the accident, but he later complained of severe headaches and worsening symptoms. Subsequently, he was admitted to the hospital after losing sensation in his legs and developing a staph infection. Medical professionals performed spinal cord surgery and placed him on life support.
Honoring Mike Williams’ Legacy at Syracuse University
Syracuse University also expressed its deep sorrow over Mike Williams’ passing. The university highlighted his remarkable contributions during his three seasons as a Syracuse student-athlete. His impressive statistics firmly secured his place in the top 10 among wide receivers and offensive players.
Mike Williams holds the distinction of being the program’s all-time leader in consecutive games with a touchdown catch, achieving this feat by crossing the goal line in 10 consecutive games, as per the university’s statement.
John Wildhack, the Director of Athletics at Syracuse University, conveyed their condolences to Mike’s family, friends, and the Syracuse football community who knew him well.
NFL Career Highlights
Following his collegiate career at Syracuse, Mike Williams was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the NFL draft in 2010. Although injuries affected his time with the Buccaneers, he later joined the Buffalo Bills in 2014, marking the conclusion of his NFL career.
Throughout his NFL journey, Mike Williams accumulated an impressive record of 26 touchdowns and 223 catches for 3,089 yards, as reported by NBC Sports.
Mike Williams’ untimely passing has left the sports world in mourning, remembering his contributions on the football field and expressing profound sympathy for his family during this difficult time.