What happened to Parys Haralson? How did the former 49er die?
Former San Francisco 49ers linebacker and staff member for the franchise, Parys Haralson, has passed away, aged 37. The cause of death is not yet known.
In 2006, the 49ers took Haralson with their fifth-round selection and the linebacker spent seven seasons with the team before moving on to the New Orleans Saints in 2013. In his career, Haralson had totaled 28 sacks, 275 tackles (49 for loss) and 63 quarterback hits.
After his playing career was over, Haralson’s attention then turned to off-the-field matters and he was the 49ers' director of player engagement.
A team statement read:
“The 49ers are heartbroken and shocked by the news of Parys’ tragic passing.”
“Parys was a beloved member of our organization that lived life with an extraordinary amount of passion and joy while leaving an indelible mark on everyone he came across.
“We extend our condolences to Parys’ family and loved ones.”
Haralson was known as an approachable and likable person and was a loved member of the 49ers organization.
Members of the NFL community reacted to Haralson's sudden death.
Parys Haralson's NFL career
The San Francisco 49ers selected Parys Haralson with the 140th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL draft.
After being limited to just seven games in his rookie season, Haralson missed only one game in the subsequent five seasons. He picked up a severe left arm injury during the 49ers preseason victory over the Broncos in 2012 and was placed on IR. He missed the entire 2012 season and was then traded to the Saints in the 2013 offseason for a seventh-round pick.
Haralson played in all 32 games during the 2013 and 2014 seasons for the Saints before retiring in 2015. He finished his career with 267 tackles, 28 sacks and three forced fumbles.
Also Check Out: Complete NFL Week 2 TV Schedule