June 22, 2022, will be remembered as one of the darkest days in the history of the Ravens franchise – a day during which #RavensFlock tragically lost two men far too soon. One, Jaylon Ferguson, a 26-year-old man; one who will never again emerge from the tunnel at The Bank; one who seemingly possessed the requisite determination to propel his 2022 season and secure a prosperous financial future for his beautiful children and fiancée.
The other, Tony Siragusa, a 55-year-old World Champion, fan-favorite and media star who reportedly had just purchased a new home in Jupiter, Florida and had just become eligible to draw on his handsome NFL pension.
Sadly, neither plan will come to fruition and these mammoth losses inspire each of us to look at our own lives, to love and make the most of our time here on this planet.
“Goose” was a big man. His personality, even bigger and consequently, because we knew him better than “Ferg”, more of our attention has been directed towards his loss. It’s rather unfair but understandable. Yesterday, the Ravens released a few statements about Jaylon, as shared by his head coach and teammates. I thought I’d share their words, collectively, in this post.
Here’s to Jaylon and Tony. To their memories and to their families. And for them and Ravens fans everywhere, may those memories lift your spirits during a horrifically sad time.
John Harbaugh
“Jaylon was a good-hearted, gentle person who loved his family and his team. He was a joy to talk with and be around every day. You always wanted to see and talk to ‘Ferg.’ Our prayers and our help go to his family. Our hearts are with his Spirit. R.I.P., Jaylon.”
OLB Tyus Bowser
“Me and ‘Ferg’ went through some of the same struggles when it came to making a name for ourselves in the league. From that, we were able to gain an understanding and help each other build and grow as players. From the playbook, to the field – and even outside of work – we created a strong bond amongst ourselves. Whether I was having a bad day or vice versa, we encouraged each other, and that’s what I appreciated most and what I’ll miss about him. His positive energy, encouragement and his belief in me helped mold me into the player and man I am today. He will be missed but NEVER forgotten. Rest Easy, 45.”
DE Calais Campbell
“Jaylon was a great young man to be around. He usually had a big smile on his face and would lighten up the room with a joke. He was just a great, fun guy. He will be missed.”
S Tony Jefferson
“‘J Ferg’ had the most genuine energy I’ve ever been around. Before I left after minicamp in the locker room, he expressed how he was ready to have a big year, and I believed it was going to be his best season as a Raven. He will be watching over us, I know it, and he will bring the team closer just from his mark he left. He will definitely be missed. We love you, ‘Ferg Dog.’ May you continue to send your contagious energy to this team every day. We need it to get to where we want to get. You will never be forgotten in Jesus’ name!”
FB Pat Ricard
“My heart is broken for Jaylon and his family. This doesn’t feel real as I write these words. Life is too short to not cherish every moment and every person. Jaylon is someone I will cherish for the rest of my life. His smile and uplifting attitude are two things I will never forget. You’d find a smile on his face no matter how the day was going. His personality was infectious throughout the locker room, and there wasn’t a person in the organization who didn’t have respect for him. My deepest condolences go out to Jaylon and his family.”
T Ronnie Stanley
“Jaylon had a pure heart. He wanted to be a great player, but never tried to downplay his teammates to get there. While 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 always with a smile and had an eagerness to learn. He wanted to be better for himself and his kids. He was so excited every time he had a new kid who was about to be born. He always talked about them and how he plays for them.”
