Former NFL defensive back Ronyell Whitaker, who played for the Minnesota Vikings, has died at 46, his family confirmed Sunday.
Whitaker’s cause of death has not been disclosed. Born March 19, 1979, he starred at Lake Taylor High School and Virginia Tech before signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2003.
He later joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2006, appearing in 27 games over two seasons and recording 31 tackles, a fumble recovery and a pass breakup. He also pursued opportunities in NFL Europe and the CFL.
After football, Whitaker became a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School and built a career in business. His family remembered him not only as a talented athlete, but as a mentor, protector and devoted family man.
Friends, former teammates and fans paid tribute as his loved ones asked for prayers, support and privacy during their time of grief.