Colts owner Jim Irsay confirmed Siragusa’s death on Twitter. The cause of death has not yet been announced. Siragusa, nicknamed Goose, played in the NFL for 12 seasons, seven of which for the Colts, who acquired him as a free agent in 1990. He joined the Baltimore Ravens in 1997 and retired after the 2001 season, a year after played a key defensive role as the franchise won its first Super Bowl. “Rene and I are surprised and devastated to learn of the sudden death of Tony Syragouza,” said Steve Bisciotti, owner of Ravens. “He was a special person and clearly one of the most popular players in Ravens history. “Tony’s life-long personality has had a huge impact on our organization and the entire Baltimore community.” Irsay said on Twitter that Siragusa was fun and “one of the strongest physical players I’ve seen in the last 50 years.” Siragusa, known for his impressive 330-pound weight during the game days, was a key member of the Ravens Championship team in the 2000 season. While that season was one of his worst statistics – he recorded only 27 tackles. bagless – contributed to one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses, absorbing blocks to allow star Ray Lewis, quarterback Rod Woodson, lineman Sam Adams and others. to succeed in their roles. This unit set an NFL record for the fewest points allowed (165) and yards allowed (970) in a regular 16-game season. “On the pitch, he was the ultimate contender for the best of us all,” Lewis said in a statement. Born in New Jersey, Siragusa won a state wrestling championship while attending Brearley High School in Kenilworth, where he also played in defense for the football team. He was also a player and kick. He played college football in Pittsburgh and then signed with the Colts as a free agent, starting 78 games in seven seasons. During the AFC Championship match for the 2000 season, Syracuse avoided several blockers early in the second quarter and almost lost the dismissal of Raiders general Rich Gannon, who had just thrown the ball before it arrived. But Siragusa hit Gannon hard and landed with all his weight in the fourth, injuring Gannon’s left collar. Siragusa was fined later, but Gannon’s injury helped the Ravens win, 16-3, on their way to a Super Bowl victory over the Giants. “There was no one like Goose – a warrior on the field and a unifying team with a generous, generous heart who helped teammates and the community more than most people know,” said Brian Billick, who coached Ravens from 1998 to 2007. a statement. “We would not have won the Super Bowl without him.” Siragusa worked as a broadcaster for Fox Sports from 2003-15. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their three children: Samantha, Ava and Anthony Jr.
