Former Baltimore Ravens coaches and players have reacted to the death of Super Bowl-winning defensive lineman Tony Serragosa with sadness and fond memories.
The Ravens were hit by another tragedy Wednesday with the killing of former linebacker Tony Serragosa.
Siragoza died at the age of 55 on Wednesday. Details of the cause of his death were not disclosed.
Legends who played and coached Siragoza during his time in Baltimore Came with mourning phrases on the charismatic line.
Statements from legends of the ravens about the death of Tony Seragosa
Ray Lewis, who played for Siragoza from 1997 to 2001:
“This is hard. I love a goose like a brother. From the first day we met, I knew life was different. I knew he was someone who would change my life forever. He was such a unique person who made you feel important and special. You can never replace man like this.
“On the field, he was the ultimate competitor who brought out the best in all of us.
“Tomorrow must not put off what we can do today. Hug your loved ones for Goose. We have all been so blessed that God gave us that time together to celebrate Team 2000 a few weeks ago.
“To the family of Syracuse: We have lost a great man, but God has gained a great angel. May he bless them with the peace he has brought to all who meet him, and carry and comfort them.”
Rod Woodson, who played for Seragoza from 1998 to 2001:
“Tony has always been the life of the party. I know he loves his family and friends. My feelings are now overwhelmed with grief for his family.”
Brian Bellick, coach of Siragoza from 1999 to 2001:
“There was no one like Goose – a field warrior and united team with a tender and generous heart who helped his teammates and the community more than most people know. We wouldn’t have won the Super Bowl without him. This is amazing and sad news, and our hearts are with Cathy and the Serragosa family.”
Marvin Lewis, who was the defensive coordinator for Siragoza from 1997 to 2001:
“First of all, my deepest condolences to Tony’s family. With Tony as a friend and colleague, you needed no one else. He played and lived life to the fullest. He always reminded me of ‘Enjoying’. This is a very sad day.”
Jamal Lewis, who played for Seragoza in 2000 and 2001:
“Goose was one of the most humble and amusing men I’ve ever known. I can remember his closet was next to mine on game day. He was never upset and enjoyed life. While I had butterflies in my stomach, he cracked jokes and pumped me at the same time. We’re glad we had a chance Let’s be together for the last time at Super Bowl XXXV. We’ll really miss him.”
Sam Adams, who played alongside Siragoza in defense in 2000 and 2001:
“It was an honor and a privilege to line up next to Tony Seragoza. He made the game fun and he was a real competitor. Our D-line room was private on and off the field. God rest his soul and God bless and his family.”
Matt Stover, who played for Seragoza from 1997 to 2001:
“I’m sorry to lose such a wonderful colleague and friend. I really think Super Bowl XXXV wouldn’t have been as good as it would have been without Tony. Not only did he deliver the quarterback, but his presence in the locker room created a loose environment when things were tight. We will miss him but neither forget.”
Rex Ryan, who was defensive line coach for Siragoza from 1999 to 2001:
“Tony was one of the best people I have ever met. It has been an absolute pleasure to coach Tony for several years. I love Tony. It was impossible to have a bad day around him – a great player, a great teammate, a great father, husband and friend. I was Tony and I are trying to get the Super Bowl [XXXV] D-line together in July at my house. We always kept in touch and have been close for years. Tony has done more with his colleagues and friends than you will know – like the time he took gifts [for his children] from under his Christmas tree to give to the family of one of his teammates who were caught in a horrific fire that burned their place.
“I remember meeting up with [defensive line] Guys and ask everyone what they’re going to do with the playoff bonuses. After all my buddies talk, Gus asked me what I would do. I said I’d finish downstairs and buy a big screen TV. After we won the Super Bowl two weeks later, Goose drove out of New Jersey and parked outside in my driveway. He had a new big screen TV in the bed of his truck. He said, “Here’s your TV downstairs.” He said that in typical goose fashion, she fell from a truck.
“My son is in his sixth season as an NFL coach. I hope one day he can coach a guy like Tony Seragoza.”
Siragoza spent seven years with the Colts before joining the Ravens in 1997. He started 70 games during his five seasons in Baltimore. He was an important member of the outstanding 2000 defense that brought Super Bowl glory.
He retired from football in 2001 and continued a long career in broadcasting.
The Ravens were already mourning the death of 26-year-old midfielder Gaylon Ferguson on Tuesday night when news broke of Siragoza’s death. Society will have to come together to remember what Siragoza accomplished and lament what Ferguson did not have the opportunity to do.
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