Speculation abounds as to whether former NFL star linebacker Junior Seau killed himself via gunshot wound to the chest in his Oceanside, CA home on Wednesday morning, near San Diego.
Seau’s body was discovered by his housekeeper, and authorities on the scene believe the wound was self inflicted, according to TMZ
Apparently, Seau, 43, had sent the same text message the night before to his ex-wife and three children: “I love you.”
Seau, a 10 time NFL All-Pro played the majority of his career for the San Diego Chargers, with short stints in Miami and New England. If Seau’s death is, indeed, deemed a suicide, it could have intense ramifications for the NFL, as the league currently battles suits laid against it by former players.
Former Atlanta Falcons safety Ray Easterling was found dead under similar circumstances less than two weeks ago. Easterling was a part of a lawsuit that accused the NFL of improper treatment and prevention of concussions and brain injuries. A frew years ago, former Chicago Bears running back Dave Duerson committed suicide via a gunshot to his chest, leaving behind a note that read, “Please, see that my brain is given to the NFL’s brain bank.”
While Seau has no reported history of brain trauma, the frequency of NFL suicides has become startling. His death comes just over two years after he announced his retirement for the second time. His first retirement lasted just four days, a testimony to just how hard it is for some athletes to stay away from the field.
In October 2010, Seau drove his car off a cliff after being arrested for felony domestic violence against his girlfriend at the time. He claimed the incident was the result of him falling asleep at the wheel.
This year marked the 20th anniversary of the Junior Seau Foundation, dedicated to helping children. Seau will be remembered for his excellence on and off the field.