Cortez Kennedy, Hall Of Fame Seahawks Defensive Tackle, Dies At 48

SEATTLE, WA — Former Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy died Tuesday at age 48 in Orlando, Florida. Orlando police confirmed Kennedy's death in a tweet, as did the NFL. Kennedy's death is not considered suspicious, according to reports.

Kennedy, a Hall of Famer, was considered one of the greatest Seahawks players ever and one of the greatest defensive players, period.

The Seahawks released a statement about Kennedy on Tuesday afternoon:

"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 the 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."

Kennedy joined the Seahawks after the 1990 draft and spent 11 years with the team. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012. Kennedy earned 58 sacks in his time with the Seahawks and represented the team in eight Pro Bowls.

Here's Kennedy in 2012 being interviewed after he entered the Hall of Fame:

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