TAMPA, Fla. — Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Steve White has died at the age of 48.
According to Tampa Bay Times' Rick Stroud, White said in April that he was checking into the Moffitt Cancer Center to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
On Wednesday, the Bucs released a statement on White's passing.
"We are saddened to hear of the passing of Steve White after his courageous battle with cancer. Steve was an impactful and respected member of the Buccaneers' vaunted defenses over six seasons and continued to connect with fans as part of the Tampa Bay community following his playing career. We extend our deepest condolences to Steve's family, friends and loved ones."
"[White] always had an encouraging word for me when I was a young player with the Buccaneers," Former NFL player Shaun King said in a tweet. He was one of the first players to release a statement following White's passing.
The former Buccaneer played for Tampa Bay from 1996 to 2001 and also wrote about the sport for the sports blog SB Nation.
"My condolences go out to his wife, children, family and friends. The memories, the fun, the conversations will never be forgotten," Former NFL player Tyoka Jackson said in a tweet.
