The parents of former NFL offensive lineman Jordan Devey are advocating for increased awareness regarding mental health and the potential impact of CTE, following their son’s death by suicide on Tuesday at the age of 38. Devey, a Super Bowl champion, is survived by his wife, Linsey, and their four children.
Jordan Devey was described by his parents, Leslie and Kerry Devey, as a person with an outsized character, known for being energetic, athletic, kind, generous, and full of laughs. Born and raised in American Fork, Devey did not play football in high school, instead participating in the band as a tuba player. He also served a mission for the LDS Church in Costa Rica.
His football career began at Snow College after a companion on his mission, part of the Tongan national rugby team, encouraged him to play. This led him to Memphis University and subsequently to the NFL, where he played for six different teams, including the New England Patriots, with whom he won a Super Bowl. Other teams he played for included the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Buffalo Bills. He retired in 2021 and had settled in Idaho, coaching high school football and being a devoted family man.
Family seeks support and raises awareness
Devey’s parents suspect that his football career may have contributed to his death, believing he possibly suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disease linked to repeated head injuries in contact sports. However, they acknowledge that a definitive answer may not be possible due to the circumstances of his death. His mother, Leslie, stated that they believe this condition was partly why he is no longer with them.
In the wake of this loss, Brittany Mahomes, wife of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, has urged fans to support Devey’s family. She shared an emotional message on social media, encouraging prayers and donations to a fundraiser established for Linsey Devey and their children. The fundraiser aims to assist with medical expenses and other financial needs during this challenging time.
The GoFundMe page describes Devey as a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished member of the football community. Linsey Devey also shared a tribute to her late husband, noting that July 23 would have been their 15th wedding anniversary. She spoke of the countless memories, joys, struggles, and triumphs they shared, and the four children they brought into the world.
Advocating for mental health
Jordan Devey’s parents are emphasizing the importance of open conversations about mental health. They want people to understand that it is acceptable to seek help and that support is available. Leslie Devey stated, “We want people to understand that it’s okay to reach out. That help is there – and there’s nothing wrong with you for reaching out. You’re not fighting the battle alone.”
In an unexpected legacy, Jordan Devey was also an organ donor, a fact his parents discovered at the hospital in Boise. This act, they noted, turns a tragedy into something meaningful that can bless other people’s lives. For those struggling with mental health, emotional distress, or needing someone to talk to, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988.
Source: fox13now.com
