Marion Barber, a former running back for the Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears, was found dead in his apartment in Texas, according to multiple reports.
According to the the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, which broke the news, a cause of death was not immediately clear.
Barber would have celebrated his 39th birthday next week.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Marion Barber III,” the Cowboys said in a statement. “Marion was an old-school, hard-nosed football player who ran with the will to win every down. He had a passion for the game and love for his coaches and teammates.
“Our hearts go out to Marion’s family and friends during this difficult time.”