Bears Defensive End Gaines Adams Dies from Heart Attack at 26
Chicago Bears Defensive End Gaines Adams died on Sunday morning after being taken to a South Carolina hospital for cardiac arrest. The coroner’s report has revealed that he died of a heart attack due to an enlarged heart. However, the true cause of death can’t be officially sited until the toxicology tests are completed in about 4 to 8 weeks.
Adams’ death was pronounced at Self Regional Hospital in Greenwood, and the corner discovered the enlarged heart during his autopsy. His family members didn’t even now about the medical condition. It’s a wonder if he even knew about it? Maybe something else caused it?
Although it’s predetermined that the cardiac arrest was connected to the enlarged heart, there are speculations that the 2007 4th overall draft pick was abusing drugs. In the past, Adams admitted to smoking pot, but this isn’t typically a cause of death due to overdose. Right now though, drug use seems unlikely the cause.
Roger Goodell, the NFL commissioner, said in a statement that he remembers Adams as a fine young man in the 2007 Draft and gave his condolences to the family and Buccaneers and Bears teammates and organizations. The football player had been traded during the season to the Bears from the Buccs, making 67 tackles and 13 sacks (17 tackles and 1 sack this season) during his short 47 NFL game career.
All of Adams’ teammates and past coaches have said that this ordeal is shocking and just a horrible outcome. Buccs head coach Raheem Morris said that, as a true team player and positive influence, he will be missed. Everyone sends prayers to his family, as he was very committed to them and know they are devastated by this loss.