Former Baltimore Ravens coaches and players reacted to the passing of Super Bowl-winning defensive lineman Tony Siragusa with sadness and fond memories.
The Ravens’ brotherhood was marred by another tragedy Wednesday with the death of former defensive lineman Tony Siragusa.
Siragusa passed away at the age of 55 on Wednesday. No details have been released about the cause of his death.
Legends who played and coached Siragusa during his time in Baltimore arrived along with statements of mourning for the charismatic lineman.
Statements on the Passing of Tony Siragusa
Ray Lewis, who played for Siragusa from 1997 to 2001:
“This is a difficult question. I love Goose as a brother. From the first day we met, I knew life was different. I knew I was someone who would change my life forever. He was a unique person who made you feel important and special. You can never replace such a man.
“On the field, he was the best competitor who brought out the best in all of us.
“We must never postpone tomorrow because of what we can do today. Hug your loved ones for Goose. We were all so blessed that God gave us that time together celebrating our 2000 team a few weeks ago.
“To the Siragusa family: We have lost a great man, but God has gained a great angel. May they be blessed, sustained, and comforted by the peace he brought to all who met him.”
Rod Woodson, who played with Siragusa from 1998 to 2001:
“Tony was always the soul of the party. I know he loved his family and friends. My feelings are overwhelmed right now by the grief for his family.”
Brian Billick, who was the head coach of Siragusa from 1999 to 2001:
“There was no one like Goose: a warrior on the field and a team unifier with a generous 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 such impressive and sad news, and our hearts go out to Kathy and the Siragusa family.”
Marvin Lewis, who was Siragusa’s defensive coordinator from 1997 to 2001:
“First of all, my deepest condolences to Tony’s family. With Tony as a friend and teammate, you didn’t need anyone else. He played and lived life to the fullest. He always reminded me to ‘have fun’. This is a very sad day.”
Jamal Lewis, who played with Siragusa in 2000 and 2001:
“Goose was one of the most humble and funny guys I knew. I can remember that his locker was next to mine on the day of the game. He never bothered and enjoyed life. While I had butterflies in my stomach, he was telling jokes and cheering me on at the same time. I’m glad I had the opportunity to be together for the last time for the celebration of Super Bowl XXXV. He will be greatly missed.”
Sam Adams, who played alongside Siragusa on the defensive line in 2000 and 2001:
“It was an honor and a privilege to be with Tony Siragusa. He made the game fun and was a real competitor. Our D-line room was special on and off the field. May he rest easy and may God bless and keep his family.”
Matt Stover, who played with Siragusa from 1997 to 2001:
“I’m sorry to lose a great teammate and friend. I truly believe that the Super Bowl XXXV team would never have been as good as it was without Tony. Not only did he connect the middle, but his presence in the locker room created a relaxed atmosphere when things were tight. He will be missed but not forgotten.”
Rex Ryan, who coached Siragusa’s defensive line from 1999 to 2001:
“Tony was one of the best people I’ve ever met. I had the absolute pleasure of coaching Tony for several years. I love Tony. It was impossible to have a bad day by his side: a great player, a great teammate, a great father, husband and friend. Tony and I were trying to get our Super Bowl [XXXV] D-line together in July at my house. We always kept in touch and were close for years. Tony did more for his teammates and friends than he will ever know, like the time he took gifts. [for his children] from under his Christmas tree to give to the family of a teammate who had a terrible fire that burned his place.
“I remember having a meeting with my [defensive line] guys and asking everyone what they were going to do with their playoff bonuses. After all my guys talked, Goose asked me what I was going to do. I said I was going to finish my basement and buy a big screen TV. After we won the Super Bowl a couple of weeks later, Goose drove in from New Jersey and parked outside at my entrance. He had a new big-screen TV on the platform of his truck. He said, ‘Here’s your TV for the basement.’ In typical Goose style, he said he fell off a truck.
“My son is in his sixth season as a coach in the NFL. I hope that one day I can train a man like Tony Siragusa.”
Siragusa spent seven years with the Colts before joining the Ravens in 1997. He started 70 games during his five seasons in Baltimore. He was a key member of the outstanding 2000 defense that achieved Super Bowl glory.
He retired from football in 2001 and went on to a long television career.
The Ravens were already mourning the death of 26-year-old linebacker Jaylon Ferguson on Tuesday night when news broke of Siragusa’s passing. The community will have to come together to remember what Siragusa accomplished and lament what Ferguson never had the opportunity to do.
