Mike Williams, a former NFL wide receiver who spent the majority of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, died Tuesday, the organization confirmed. He was 36.
NBC Sports reported that Williams was gravely hurt in a construction accident last week.
The Bucs issued a statement expressing their sympathies to his family and friends.
“We are heartbroken to learn of Mike Williams’ unexpected death, which has struck our organization, his former colleagues, and fans with heavy hearts. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones as they mourn this tragedy.
Williams’ family members could not be reached for comment Tuesday afternoon.
His mother, Mary Rosenthal, told WIVB-TV in Buffalo, New York, that her family needed a “Hail Mary” after Williams was taken off a ventilator on Friday.
Rosenthal told WIVB that Williams was conducting electrical work last month when a steel beam was dropped on his head. He initially walked away from the accident, but he complained of headaches, and his condition worsened.
He was hospitalized a few days later after losing feeling in his legs and developing a staph infection, she told the station. He underwent spinal cord surgery and was placed on life support.
“He said if this happens to me, unplug my plug because I don’t want to live like that,” Rosenthal told WIVB. “These are his wishes. He had already signed the papers as a football player.
Syracuse University also issued a statement on Tuesday expressing sympathy.
Williams had three excellent seasons for the Orange, accumulating statistics that solidified his place in the top ten of various categories among wide receivers and offensive players, according to the statement.
Williams holds the program record most consecutive games with a touchdown catch, having scored in ten straight games, according to the university.
“We are deeply grieved to learn of the unfortunate death of former Syracuse student-athlete Mike Williams,” athletic director John Wildhack stated. “We send our heartfelt condolences to Mike’s family, friends, and everyone in the Syracuse football community who knew him.”
Following his stint at Syracuse, the Buccaneers selected Williams in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL draft. When injuries hindered him in Tampa, he was moved to the Buffalo Bills in 2014, where he finished his NFL career.
He completed his career with 223 catches for 3,089 yards and 26 touchdowns, according to NBC Sports.
