Former NFL Player Steve White Dead At 48
By Jason Hall
August 31, 2022
Former NFL defensive end Steve White died Tuesday (August 30) after a lengthy battle with cancer, the Tampa Bay Times reports.
White, who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during his first six NFL seasons, was previously diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and had announced he needed a bone marrow transplant in April.
Former Buccaneers defensive lineman Tyoka Jackson initially shared news of White's death on his verified Twitter account.
"#RIP to my road game roommate @sgw94," Jackson tweeted. "My condolences go out to his wife, children, family and friends. The memories, the fun, the conversations will never be forgotten."
#RIP to my road game roommate @sgw94. My condolences go out to his wife, children, family and friends. The memories, the fun, the conversations will never be forgotten. 🙏🏽
— Tyoka Jackson (@Tyknowsfootball) August 31, 2022
The Buccaneers shared an official statement regarding White's death on their verified Twitter account.
"We are saddened to hear of the passing of Steve White after his courageous battle with cancer," the Buccaneers said. "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 and loved ones."
Rest in peace, Steve White 🙏 pic.twitter.com/dawDGOr53a
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) August 31, 2022
Several other former teammates shared their condolences on social media after news of White's death including Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Sapp and former Buccaneers quarterback Shaun King.
“RIP Steve White #94 in your Program but #1 in Our hearts!!,” Sapp tweeted.
RIP Steve White #94 in your Program but #1 in Our hearts!! #SmartToughAndGreatMan #DLine pic.twitter.com/8XWISRONbA
— Warren Sapp (@WarrenSapp) August 31, 2022
"Just heard my former teammate @sgw94 passed away," King tweeted. "Condolences to his family and loved ones. Always had am encouraging word for me when I was a young player with the @Buccaneers."
Just heard my former teammate @sgw94 passed away. Condolences to his family and loved ones. Always had am encouraging word for me when I was a young player with the @Buccaneers
— shaun king (@realshaunking) August 31, 2022
The University of Tennessee's football program also paid tribute to White, who played for the Volunteers from 1992-95.
We mourn the loss of #VFL Steve White, who passed away at the age of 48.
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) August 31, 2022
White played for the Vols from 1992-95 before embarking on a seven-year NFL career. pic.twitter.com/LlB3CMO5OE
White was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the sixth-round of the 1996 NFL Draft at No. 194 overall, but signed with the Buccaneers as a free agent ahead of his first NFL season.
The Memphis native recorded 119 tackles, 11.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss during his seven-year NFL career, which concluded with one season spent with the New York Jets in 2002.