Former Detroit Lions Star Tracy Scroggins Dead at 56

Family believes CTE played a role in his death after 10-year NFL career with the Lions

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Former Detroit Lions linebacker Tracy Scroggins has died at the age of 56. The team announced his passing, though the cause of death was not revealed. Scroggins' family said he had been battling the effects of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) for years after his NFL career, and they believe CTE ultimately led to his untimely demise.

Why it matters

Scroggins' death highlights the ongoing concerns about the long-term health impacts of playing professional football, especially the risks of CTE for former NFL players. His family's lawsuit against the league in 2016 over his CTE diagnosis also underscores the legal battles many ex-players have faced in seeking compensation and support from the NFL.

The details

Scroggins was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round in 1992 and spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the team. During that time, he recorded 321 tackles and 60.5 sacks in 142 games before retiring in 2001. After his playing days, Scroggins became an advocate for player health and safety, filing a lawsuit against the NFL in 2016 over his CTE diagnosis.

  • Scroggins was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1992.
  • Scroggins played for the Lions for 10 seasons, retiring in 2001.
  • Scroggins filed a lawsuit against the NFL in 2016 over his CTE diagnosis.
  • Scroggins passed away on Monday, February 11, 2026 at the age of 56.

The players

Tracy Scroggins

A former linebacker who spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Detroit Lions, recording 321 tackles and 60.5 sacks. He later filed a lawsuit against the NFL over his CTE diagnosis.

Detroit Lions

The NFL team that drafted Scroggins in the second round in 1992 and for whom he played his entire professional career.

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What they’re saying

“Tracy was a devoted father, cherished family member, and loyal friend whose life was marked by remarkable strength and perseverance. While many knew him for his career as a professional football player in the NFL, those closest to him knew him as a kind-hearted and generous man who cared deeply for his family and friends.”

— Scroggins Family (TMZ)

“Playing in the NFL gave Tracy the opportunity to pursue his lifelong dream and to rise from poverty. However, unfortunately, the NFL was also ultimately the cause of his untimely demise. Tracy spent every moment of retirement courageously battling the devastating effects of CTE. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.”

— Scroggins Family (TMZ)

What’s next

The Scroggins family is expected to continue advocating for greater awareness and support around the issue of CTE in former NFL players.

The takeaway

Scroggins' tragic death at just 56 years old underscores the serious long-term health risks that many former professional football players face, especially the devastating impact of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). His family's public statements highlight the personal toll this takes on players and their loved ones, and reinforce the need for the NFL to prioritize player safety and provide better care and compensation for those dealing with the aftermath of their playing careers.