Demaryius Thomas, 33, died on Thursday in Roswell, GA, from an apparent medical issue. He played 10 seasons in the NFL, including the 2019 season for the Jets when he played in 11 games, made 36 receptions for 433 yards. His last touchdown came on a 14-yard pass from Sam Darnold in a 22-21 win over the Dolphins.
"An absolute tragedy," Saleh said. "He was an unbelievable pro, he produced a lot for Denver and there were a lot of wars with Seattle [where Saleh was an assistant from 2011-13]. "I'm sure there are a lot of hurt hearts in the football community."
Thomas was a four-time Pro Bowler for the Broncos, helping Denver defeat Carolina in the 50th Super Bowl. In all, he caught 724 passes for 9,763 yards and 63 touchdowns. Denver signed him to a one-day contract in June so he could retire as a Bronco and he was honored during halftime of the game against the Jets in Week 3 this season.
In a statement, the Broncos said he "established himself as a dominant record-setting wide receiver who was an instrumental part of two championship runs and our victory in Super Bowl 50."
"An absolute tragedy," Saleh said. "He was an unbelievable pro, he produced a lot for Denver and there were a lot of wars with Seattle [where Saleh was an assistant from 2011-13]. "I'm sure there are a lot of hurt hearts in the football community."
Thomas was a four-time Pro Bowler for the Broncos, helping Denver defeat Carolina in the 50th Super Bowl. In all, he caught 724 passes for 9,763 yards and 63 touchdowns. Denver signed him to a one-day contract in June so he could retire as a Bronco and he was honored during halftime of the game against the Jets in Week 3 this season.
In a statement, the Broncos said he "established himself as a dominant record-setting wide receiver who was an instrumental part of two championship runs and our victory in Super Bowl 50."