Seattle Seahawks release statement on death of Cortez Kennedy

The NFL community is mourning the loss of former Seahawks star Cortez Kennedy, who passed away on Tuesday at just 48 years of age. Kennedy was one of the best defensive tackles to ever play the game and a consistent bright spot for Seattle during a decade in which they failed to qualify for the postseason until 1999.

As tributes continue to pour out, the Seattle Seahawks released this official statement on the passing of a local Seattle sporting icon and a true legend of the game.

Cortez Kennedy has been a pillar of the Seahawks franchise since joining the team as a rookie in 1990. Tez was the heart and soul of the Seahawks through the 1990s and endeared himself to 12s all across the Pacific Northwest as a player who played with a selfless and relentless approach to the game. Tez was an NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Pro Football Hall of Famer, and Seahawks Ambassador, but more than his on-field accomplishments, he was a loyal son, father, teammate and friend to many, possessing a larger-than-life personality and an infectious laugh. We extend our warmest thoughts and prayers to his parents, Ruby and Joe Harris, daughter Courtney, and entire family on the unfortunate loss of a life-long Seahawk. We are proud to have been represented by such a special person.

More Seahawks and league-wide reaction on Kennedy’s death will be published on Field Gulls later today.