Jaylan Ferguson, an outside midfielder who was entering his fourth season with the Baltimore Ravens, has died after authorities found him unresponsive at a home in North Baltimore late Tuesday, police said. He was 26 years old.
Baltimore police said in a statement that officers were called to the home shortly before 11:30 p.m. to investigate a “suspicious death.” When they arrived, Mr Ferguson did not respond, said Detective Nicki Fenoi, a spokesman for the department. Paramedics found him dead on the spot, she said.
There were no signs of trauma or misconduct, Detective Fenoi said, but investigators “do not rule out the possibility of an overdose.”
Mr Ferguson’s body was taken to the forensic office, where an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death, police said.
The Ravens announced Mr Ferguson’s death on social media early Wednesday morning, saying the team was “deeply saddened by the tragic death of Jaylan Ferguson”. The team described Mr Ferguson as “a kind, respectful young man with a wide smile and a contagious personality”.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jaylan’s family and friends as we mourn the loss of life too soon,” the team wrote.
The Ravens selected Mr. Ferguson during the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft as the 85th overall pick. In his new season, he recorded 31 rebounds and 2.5 sacks and contributed to the defense of Ravens, which ranked third in points allowed. In 2020, in a match against Cincinnati Bengals, he set a career record in six fights.
Mr. Ferguson, a Louisiana-born and Louisiana Technical University graduate, broke the NCAA’s career dismissal record of 45, earning the nickname “Sack Daddy” and defeating longtime former Ravens player Terrell Sags, who posted 44 dismisses. Arizona State University.
Current and former NFL teammates and players paid tribute to Mr Ferguson on Wednesday.
Josh Bynes, Raven’s midfielder, said on Twitter that he and Mr Ferguson had always had “real” conversations.
“We joked together, laughed together, prayed together, fought on the field together !!” he wrote. “Just a real spirit.”
Add Comment