'Off the field, he was even more special': NFL world mourns death of Demaryius Thomas

Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Thomas catches a pass before the game against the Cleveland Browns at NRG Stadium on December 2, 2018 in Houston. Photo credit Tim Warner/Getty Images

With five 1,000-yard seasons, four Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring under his belt, former wide receiver Demaryius Thomas had a football resume that spoke for itself.

And though those accomplishments are undeniably impressive, they were not the focal point of the outpouring of tributes and memories that appeared on social media following the tragic news that Thomas had passed away at age 33.

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Instead, the bulk of the current and former NFL players and members of sports media who took to social media after the news opted to reflect on his incredible character. As The Washington Post's Nick Jhabvala noted, "Off the field, he was even more special," and the reporter shared a video that shows just how much of an impact he had on the lives of those in the community around him.

The Broncos released a statement remembering his "humility, warmth, kindness and infectious smile" and sending out their deepest sympathies to those who are "grieving this unimaginable loss." Two of his former Broncos quarterbacks, Tim Tebow and Peyton Manning, were also quick to share their thoughts and memories of the special person he was.

Other members of that Broncos who took the field alongside Thomas or were able to cheer him on after their playing days were over had similar things to say.

And the tributes didn't stop after the Broncos community, extending throughout the whole NFL world and featuring thoughts from some of the league's top stars and wide receivers who looked up to Thomas for both on-field and off-field greatness.

We'll leave you with one more thought, this one from ESPN senior writer Jeff Legwold who has covered the Broncos for nearly two decades, coming across a lot of players and figures within the organization... but none quite like No. 88.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Tim Warner/Getty Images