Longtime Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey has died at the age of 37, the team announced on Wednesday.
Bailey played eight of his 10 NFL seasons with the team from 2011 to 2018.
Allen’s brother, Alford Bailey Jr., told TMZ that Bailey was found dead at his home on Tuesday by his wife. No foul play is suspected and the family believes Bailey died of natural causes.
“Obviously, it’s terrible to hear the news that we heard,” quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. “A great teammate - you see him and he was one of those glue guys on the team. He makes plays, but [he’s] not necessarily the superstar. He kind of makes everything go...we’re praying for him and his family.”
Head coach Andy Reid also paid his respects.
“Our hearts go out to his family,” Reid said. “Our prayers are with them. Way too young, obviously, one of my favourite players. A great kid and I’m just sorry to see that happen to him.”
A native of Sapelo Island, GA, Bailey was originally selected with the 86th overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft out of Miami. He would go on to appear in 133 games with the Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons. Retiring after the 2020 season, Bailey finished his career with 248 tackles, 22.0 sacks, four forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries.