Wednesday was a tragic day for Ravens fans everywhere.
We first woke up to the shocking news that 26-year old Defensive Lineman Jaylon Ferguson had passed. The Baltimore Ravens organization eloquently and thoughtfully made the announcement:
We are profoundly saddened by the tragic passing of Jaylon Ferguson. pic.twitter.com/ylBvLEzjer
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) June 22, 2022
Not long after, legendary Raven and fan favorite Tony Siragusa himself passed at the age of 55.
This is a tremendously sad day for the Baltimore Ravens. pic.twitter.com/dbXDb5Ns76
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) June 22, 2022
As the second post notes, it was a “tremendously sad day” in Baltimore, regardless of fandom. For Ravens Flock specifically, it’s hard to frame the day better than Gerry Sandusky does here:
This is one of the saddest days in Ravens history. The deaths of Jaylen Ferguson and Tony Siragusa on the same day leaves every Ravens fan stunned. A player so young with potential, and a legend who brought so joy and impact to the field. Gone. Tough to wrap your head around.
— Gerry Sandusky (@GerrySandusky) June 22, 2022
An outpour of support for those close to Ferguson and Siragusa came throughout the day, but I did want to highlight Tony’s beautiful expression of condolences.
To all @Ravens employees…players, coaches, admin, operations, etc., from all of us @RussellStReport, our most sincere and heartfelt condolences for the massive losses experienced today. May your love and memories provide some lift for each of you during a very difficult time. pic.twitter.com/RW0uYNY0a3
— Tony Lombardi (@RSRLombardi) June 22, 2022
I couldn’t have put it better myself, and I know all of the RSR Family echoes his sentiments. While it’s always special to see the NFL community come together in such moments, I believe the best judgement of a player and person is the way players within that community convey their feelings about him.
These two unexpected deaths are examples of that.
Prayers up for Jaylon Ferguson and his family. Great teammate and gone too soon at the age of 26. 🙏🏾
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) June 22, 2022
Ravens LT Ronnie Stanley on Jaylon Ferguson:
"Going against him in practice, he would always tell me when I was doing a good job, even when it meant it was against himself. … He was so excited every time he had a new kid who was about to be born. He always talked about them."
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) June 22, 2022
Tf man
— Rashod Bateman (@R_bateman2) June 22, 2022
— Rashod Bateman (@R_bateman2) June 22, 2022
Ferguson was a family man, a promising player, and by all accounts, a person who was loved.
Siragusa, a member of the 2000 Super Bowl Champion Ravens, had a profound impact on those he touched, as well.
Retired former Ravens defensive tackle Tony Siragusa died in his sleep at age 55. Former Ravens teammate Brad Jackson: 'He was the leader, he was our captain. He meant everything to everyone. It's a sad day. I just talked to him on Sunday. It's terrible.'
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) June 22, 2022
"There was no one like Goose."
More reaction to Tony Siragusa's passing from Ozzie Newsome, Brian Billick and Marvin Lewis. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/vY5sy9VHDq
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) June 22, 2022
Among the statements released by the #Ravens just now on the passing of Tony Siragusa, this from Ray Lewis pic.twitter.com/DnyL3R0w8G
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 22, 2022
Though too young to remember too much of Siragusa’s career, his involvement in the Baltimore did not cease when his time on the Ravens came to an end. I will always remember the incredible personality that Goose was, each moment a clear indication of the person he was, too. RIP Tony Siragusa.
Similarly, I will always remember following Ferguson in college and the excitement I had when he was selected by Baltimore. Ferguson was so talented as a player, but after seeing pictures and clips of him with his family, it’s clear how much he loved his family. He will be missed dearly by all. RIP Jaylon Ferguson.
There’s not much else to add today. But if a reminder was needed, always keep Garrett Downing’s last sentence here close to mind.
Such a sad day in Ravens history.
Tragic to lose Jaylon Ferguson at just 26 years old and Tony Siragusa at 55. Hard to believe.
Hug your loved ones, each day is precious.
— Garrett Downing (@gdowning14) June 22, 2022