Seahawks Legend Cortez Kennedy passes away at the age of 48

Legendary Seahawks and Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle Cortez Kennedy has passed away at the age of 48, according to TMZ Sports. Although, the cause of his death is unclear; his death has been confirmed by the Orlando Police Department with no suspicious activity believed to be in play.  Cortez is just one of four Seahawks Hall of Famers to spend his entire career with the club.

Before arriving in the Emerald City Kennedy was an anchor at the University of Miami where he terrorized Quarterbacks for four years.

Kennedy was selected in the first round of the 1990 NFL draft by the Seahawks. From there he went on to be named a Pro Bowler eight times and at the end of the 1990’s he was named by the NFL as a part of their all-decade team.

In 1992, having recorded 14 quarterback sacks, he received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press despite the Seahawks having one of the worst years in their history. Kennedy switched his jersey number to 99 that season in honor of close friend and former Hurrican Teamate Jerome Brown and was named First- or Second-team All-Pro five times.

Since his retirement, Kennedy has worked as an advisor for the New Orleans Saints, whose general manager, Mickey Loomis, had previously worked for the Seahawks.

In 2006, Kennedy was inducted into the Seahawks’ Ring of Honor.

In 2007, Kennedy was named the best athlete ever to wear the number 96 by SI.com.

In 2012, Kennedy was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was the second Hall of Famer to earn his credentials primarily as a Seahawk. His jersey number, 96, was also retired by the Seattle Seahawks during a game against the New England Patriots on October 14, 2012.

Kennedy was one of the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history and will be sadly missed by all NFL fans.