The parents of former NFL offensive lineman Jordan Devey say they believe he may have been suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) before his death earlier this week.
Videos by FanBuzz
Speaking to Fox 13 in Salt Lake City (via the NY Post), Leslie Devey said the family fears repeated head trauma from her son's football career may have contributed to his struggles.
"We believe that he possibly suffered from CTE," she said.
CTE is a degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head impacts. It can only be definitively diagnosed after death through a specialized examination of brain tissue.
Leslie Devey told the station the family will not be able to determine whether her son had CTE because, due to the circumstances surrounding his death, testing will not be performed.
Jordan Devey played seven NFL seasons with the Patriots, 49ers, Chiefs, Raiders and Bills after entering the league in 2013. He appeared in 44 career games, making 21 starts, and was a member of New England's Super Bowl-winning team during the 2014 season.
His father, Kerry Devey, reflected on the family's loss and the questions that remain.
"You think you're strong until something like this happens," he told Fox 13. "It brings in the what-ifs."
The family also used the opportunity to encourage anyone facing mental health challenges to seek help.
"We want people to understand that it's okay to reach out," Leslie Devey said. "Help is there, and you're not fighting the battle alone."
Devey is survived by his wife and four children.
