Former New York Giants, New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals player Korey Cunningham has died at the age of 28, the Giants confirmed on Friday.
The Giants led the tributes to the five-year NFL veteran. "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Korey Cunningham," a spokesman said. "He was a vital part of the spirit and camaraderie of the locker room. Our thoughts are with Korey’s family, friends and teammates."
RLS Media reports Cunningham was found dead at his home in Clifton, New Jersey on Thursday. Emergency services attended the scene at Riverwalk Way at around 3:30 p.m. after reports of a man being found unconscious.
Cunningham attended the University of Cincinnati where he was the starting left tackle. He was selected by the Cardinals in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft. After one year with Arizona, he was traded to the Patriots for a sixth-round pick and he spent two seasons in Foxborough.
A two-season stint with the New York Giants followed until he was released on the eve of the 2023 season, failing to make the final roster. The Alabama native played 31 games across his NFL career, making six starts.
Cunningham was last active on social media just four days ago, posting pictures of a turkey hunting trip in West Virginia. He wrote: "Last-minute trip across the Mason Dixon to chase Easterns. 'Til next time Carolina."
Former Giants running back Saquon Barkley was one of the first NFL players to react to the announcement, posting on social media: "Damn man," in response to the news. Barkley and Cunningham played together in the Meadowlands for two years together before the latter was traded.
Safety Jason Pinnock then posted a lengthy statement to his Instagram page, writing: "This one hurt! Regardless of what you was going through you wore the biggest smile!
"You was the first person to come help me move when I was getting settled at NYG. Middle of camp & you frinding to be on team & learn new playbook, you was the first at my house ready! Take care of yourselves & call your friends ppl. I love you brudda!"