Super Bowl Winner and ‘Man Caves’ Star Tony Siragusa Dies at 55
Tony Siragusa, who was part of the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2001 and co-hosted the TV series Man Caves, has died. He was 55.
The former NFL defensive tackle passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Wednesday, June 22, as first shared on social media by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. The Ravens later confirmed the news in a statement, though no details were provided regarding the cause of death.
The Goose squeezed 200 fun loving years into 55!! He was one of the most physically strongest players I have ever seen in 50 years💪🏼🏈 In Greece,they would ask 1 question at the end of one’s life; Did He Have Passion? In Tony’s case..Yes He Did!!💪🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼❤️
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) June 22, 2022
Born on May 14, 1967, in Kenilworth, New Jersey, Siragusa began his career with the Indianapolis Colts before signing with Baltimore in 1997. Nicknamed “Goose,” he became part of what is considered among the greatest NFL defense squads of all time during his career with the Ravens.
After hanging up his boots, Siragusa worked for Fox Sports from 2003 to 2015, including almost a decade as a sideline analyst on the network’s NFL broadcasts. He also co-hosted the DIY Network’s home renovation series Man Caves, which aired over 130 episodes from 2007 to 2015.
He also took a turn at acting, appearing in a four-episode story-arc as Frankie Cortese on The Sopranos in 2004, Spike Lee’s 2002 movie 25th Hour, and an episode of the short-lived 2011 sports-comedy series Cubed.
“There was no one like Goose, a warrior on the field and a team unifier with a giving, generous heart who helped teammates and the community more than most people know,” said former Ravens coach Brian Billick in a statement (via NFL.com). “We would not have won the Super Bowl without him. This is such stunning, sad news, and our hearts go out to Kathy and the Siragusa family.”
The news of Siragusa’s death came just hours after current Ravens player Jaylon Ferguson was found dead at the age of 26. According to the BBC, police officers responded to a home in north Baltimore on Tuesday and discovered Ferguson unresponsive and being treated by medics. A cause of death was not given.
This is one of the saddest days in Ravens history. The deaths of Jaylen Ferguson and Tony Siragusa on the same day leaves every Ravens fan stunned. A player so young with potential, and a legend who brought so joy and impact to the field. Gone. Tough to wrap your head around.
— Gerry Sandusky (@GerrySandusky) June 22, 2022
Today hasn’t been easy for the #Ravens family, losing Jaylon Ferguson and Tony Siragusa in the same day
May both of them Rest In Peace 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/SLC0i93xAw
— The Ravens Realm (@RealmRavens) June 22, 2022
RIP Tony Siragusa. Big player. Bigger personality. He’ll be missed. pic.twitter.com/JHmW78x7No
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) June 22, 2022
Devastated. Tony Siragusa was one of the most special, genuine ppl I’ve ever met. Always honest. Always maintaining perspective & offering levity to every situation. Thx for all the laughs & for being such a dear friend to the Steele family. Brutal day for @ravens @TonySiragusa
— Sage Steele (@sagesteele) June 22, 2022
Such a sad day in Ravens history.
Tragic to lose Jaylon Ferguson at just 26 years old and Tony Siragusa at 55. Hard to believe.
Hug your loved ones, each day is precious.
— Garrett Downing (@gdowning14) June 22, 2022
