Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker and Super Bowl champion Clark Haggans has passed away at the age of 46. The news of his death was first reported by 93.7 The Fan’s Collin Dunlap, and has left many who remember Haggans from his days in the NFL wondering exactly what the former player’s cause of death was.
Haggans was a fifth-round pick of the Steelers in 2000 and played for the team until 2007. He was a member of the Super Bowl XL championship team that defeated the Seattle Seahawks in 2006. He also played for the Arizona Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers before retiring in 2013.
No Foul Play Evident
According to ESPN, a spokesperson from the Steelers confirmed Haggans’ death on Wednesday, but did not provide any details on the cause of death. The coroner’s office issued a statement saying that “no foul play is evident,” despite the fact that the cause of death for Haggans has not been determined at this time.
The statement also said that an autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause and manner of death, and that the results will be released as soon as they are available. The coroner’s office did not specify when the autopsy will take place or how long it will take to complete.
Possible Health Issues
While the cause of death for Haggans remains unknown, some have speculated that he may have had some health issues that were not publicly known. According to Distractify, Haggans was in great shape, but if he had any health difficulties, his family may have kept them secret.
Some have also pointed out that Haggans played a position that often exposes players to brain damage and other health problems later in life. As a linebacker, Haggans was involved in many collisions and tackles that could have caused concussions or other head injuries. According to Genius Celebs, some fans have wondered if Haggans suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease that affects many former NFL players.
CTE can cause symptoms such as memory loss, depression, aggression, dementia, and suicidal thoughts. However, CTE can only be diagnosed after death by examining the brain tissue. There is no definitive test or treatment for CTE at this time.
A Legacy of Excellence
Regardless of what caused Haggans’ death, his legacy as a football player and a person will live on. Haggans was remembered by his former teammates, coaches, and fans as a hard-working, talented, and humble player who always gave his best on and off the field.
Haggans played 13 seasons in the NFL, recording 502 tackles, 46.5 sacks, 16 forced fumbles, and three interceptions. He was a key contributor to the Steelers’ defense that ranked among the best in the league for several years. He also made two more Super Bowl appearances with the Cardinals and the 49ers, although he lost both times.
Haggans was also known for his charitable work and his involvement in the community. He supported various causes such as animal welfare, cancer research, and youth development. He also mentored young players and shared his wisdom and experience with them.
Haggans is survived by his wife Lisa and their two children, Clark Jr. and Rocco. He will be missed by many who admired him as a player and a person.
