AP Photo/Elise Amendola
A family member told 9News in Denver that Demaryius Thomas had died at the age of 33.
According to the Washington Post, police in Roswell, Georgia, confirmed that Thomas was dead at his home on Thursday evening and that "preliminary information" suggested he died of a medical issue.
Thomas is best known for his time with the Denver Broncos. He was selected in the first round of the 2010 draft. He caught the game-winning touchdown pass in the team's Wild Card Round win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Thomas was selected to five straight Pro Bowls from 2012 to '16. He had over 1,000 receiving yards in each of those seasons. He had career bests in catches and yards in both of the last two years.
Thomas was a favorite target of Manning. The Broncos won their first title since 1998 in Super Bowl 50.
The Houston Texans traded Thomas midway through the season. He played his final season with the New York Jets after signing with the New England Patriots.
On June 28, 2021, Thomas announced his retirement from the NFL.
He finished his career with 9,763 receiving yards and 63 touchdown catches.
Demaryius was a big part of everything we accomplished during his time as a Broncos. John Elway said at the time of his retirement that Demaryius was instrumental in setting historic records and the team winning a lot of games.
Several Broncos players, including some of Thomas' former teammates, took to social media to express their grief after the news broke.
D-Ware is talking to DeMarcus Ware.
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The picture is of a broken heart.
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Brandon Marshall has a handle on BMarshh.
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Love forever bro.
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Garett Bolles has a handle on gbolles72.
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Ain't that possible man. I am sad.
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Tyler Polumbus wrote "Tyler_Polumbus."
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Absolutely sick. The person is shaking. It was a neaseous thing. Can't be true. I love you 88. One of the most generous Superstars I have ever had the pleasure of calling friend. You should hug someone you love.
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On Christmas Day, Thomas would've been 34 years old.
