Former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas was found dead in his home late Thursday night. 

According to police, preliminary reports indicate Thomas, 33, possibly died of medical issues. 

Thomas’ 34^th birthday was on Christmas. He retired from the NFL in June. 

Thomas’ first cousin, LaTonya Bonseigneur, told the Associated Press that the family believes he died from a seizure. 

“He had been suffering from seizures for over a year, and we believe he had a seizure when he was showering,” Bonseigneur said early Friday. “We’re not sure when he died. We just spoke with him yesterday.” 

Former teammates also said Thomas had been dealing with seizures recently. 

Related: Police Investigating Death of Former NFL Player Taken Into Custody 

The Broncos released a statement early Friday to mourn the loss of a cornerstone piece of their franchise. 

“We are devastated and completely heartbroken by the sudden, tragic passing of Demaryius Thomas,” the Broncos said. “D.T. was beloved by our entire organization, his teammates and coaches, and our fans. Recently retiring as a Bronco, we were very much looking forward to celebrating Demaryius for years to come as one of the greatest players in franchise history.” 

Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, who played with Thomas for four years in Denver, said he was “absolutely devastated.” 

“DT was a better person than he was a player, and he was a Hall of Fame player,” Manning said. “That tells you how good of a person he was. He treated my kids like they were his own. He was there for every teammate’s charity event. … Absolutely devastated.” 

Thomas played collegiately at Georgie Tech, who also posted a picture of him on social media. 

The gentle giant is most notably known for his catch and run touchdown winning catch on a pass from Tim Tebow in overtime. 

“Woke up and saw the really devastating news about my teammate and friend, Demaryius Thomas,” Tebow tweeted. “So many are going to remember him for his athletic ability… but I’ll be remembering him for his kindness, his smile that would light up a room, and the love he had for those in his life.” 

Players, family and friends from all reacted to the sudden passing of Thomas.