The NFL world was abuzz on Friday due to the excitement surrounding the 2024 NFL draft. The 32 franchises were looking forward to bolstering their squads with explosive weapons. Meanwhile, the football community witnessed something for which they were not absolutely ready.
Former NFL offensive tackle Korey Cunningham has tragically passed away. The untimely death of the 28-year-old star left the football community in shock and mourning. The news of his sudden death was confirmed after Clifton, New Jersey police responded to concerns from his family about not hearing from him. Upon entering Cunningham’s residence, they discovered his lifeless body.
According to @Patriots Korey Cunningham has passed away.
— Pats Buzz (@PatsBuzz) April 26, 2024
Praying for his family. Gone way too soon. Rest in Peace Korey. pic.twitter.com/RqSFXrebav
The investigation is going on, and authorities have ensured that there are no apparent signs of foul play surrounding Cunningham’s death, according to AP News. However, the exact circumstances leading to his passing remain undisclosed, pending further inquiry.
Giants and Patriots mourn loss of Korey Cunningham
Korey Cunningham was a former player for the Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, and New York Giants. The towering figure, at 6-foot-6 and 311 pounds, left an indelible mark on his teammates and the league during his time on the field.
The Giants expressed their sorrow, highlighting the footballer’s integral role in fostering team unity.
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Korey Cunningham. He was a vital part of the spirit and camaraderie of the locker room. Our thoughts are with Korey’s family, friends and teammates,” Giants wrote on Friday.
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Korey Cunningham. He was a vital part of the spirit and camaraderie of the locker room. Our thoughts are with Korey’s family, friends and teammates.
— New York Giants (@Giants) April 26, 2024
The Patriots extended their heartfelt sympathies to his family, teammates, and all who mourn his loss.
“The New England Patriots are saddened to learn of the unexpected passing of Korey Cunningham..We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Korey’s family, teammates and all who mourn his loss,” the Patriots posted on X.
The New England Patriots are saddened to learn of the unexpected passing of Korey Cunningham.
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 26, 2024
We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Korey's family, teammates and all who mourn his loss. pic.twitter.com/HPvOs6L8kj
Former teammates also took to social media to share their grief and fond memories of Cunningham. Former Giants running back Saquon Barkley, who recently joined the Philadelphia Eagles, expressed his shock and sadness at the news.
“Damn man,” Barkley wrote on X.
Giants offensive lineman Justin Pugh recounted Cunningham’s enduring presence in team activities. He noted how the deceased player was always welcomed at team dinners despite no longer being on the roster.
“We would invite him to the OL dinner every week even though he wasn’t on the team which doesn’t happen … ever. Team dinners are for players on the team only. Except for Korey … solely because he was beloved by all the guys regardless if you knew him or not! He’d tell stories and we’d laugh our asses off all night,” Pugh wrote.
Cunningham’s journey to the NFL began at the University of Cincinnati. He was drafted in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL draft by the Arizona Cardinals. The offensive star was released from the Giants last year and didn’t grace the football field after that. His spirit and passion for the game will continue to inspire players in the league.
