Just days ago, Chuck Norris had looked at the camera and said, “I don’t age, I level up.” The martial arts champion was marking his 86th birthday, sparring lightly with a boxing trainer outdoors, moving with the same steady focus that had defined him for decades. Under the bright sunlight, he was grateful for another year of staying active and doing what he loved. But not long after, things took a sudden turn for the worse.

On 19th March, Thursday, Norris was hospitalized in Hawaii with an undisclosed medical emergency. Come Friday morning, his family posted a statement announcing the news of his death. 

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” noted Chuck Norris’ Instagram page with his picture. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.

“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family,” the statement continued. “He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives.”

As an elite martial artist, the legendary actor had an interest in sports, including football. Although he was born in Oklahoma, he primarily lived in Texas. Norris never officially named his preferred NFL team, but during a fan interaction in 2023, the Texas Rangers star noted he was a supporter of the Dallas Cowboys.

When the Cowboys won the Lombardi Trophy in the 1970s and 1990s, Norris himself was at the peak of his movie career.

Additionally, Norris showcased his dedication to football in 2013 when he wrote a public message to the Jacksonville Jaguars, suggesting they sign quarterback Tim Tebow, whom he considered an elite player.

Like movie fans all over the world, the NFL personalities are mourning the death of the iconic actor.

Pat McAfee, Chad Johnson, and others react to Chuck Norris’ death

The former Indianapolis Colts punter Pat McAfee, who also hosts the Pat McAfee Show, took on X to share his thoughts on Chuck Norris’ death, sharing the heartbreaking update posted by TMZ.

“DAMN,” he captioned his X post.

The former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver and the six-time Pro Bowler, Chad Johnson, also displayed a similar kind of reaction upon hearing the news of his passing. Sharing the same post as McAfee, the 48-year-old mourned by attaching a heartbreak emoji to his caption.

Former Baltimore Ravens quarterback Robert Griffin III couldn’t hold back his emotions on X, as he penned a heartfelt message for the movie star, posting a 40-second tribute video.

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“Prayers up for the family, friends and fans of the legendary Chuck Norris who passed away at the age of 86. Rest in Peace Walker, Texas Ranger,” Griffin captioned the video.

The sheer number of former NFL players speaking about the tragic loss was an indication of an entire generation that grew up loving Chuck Norris. Soon enough, love and disbelief was made known by former Tampa Bay Buccaneers players too.

The former defensive tackle, Gerald McCoy, seemed to be in disbelief after hearing the news.

“CHUCK NORRIS!?! Nooooo!! Dang!! Not COLT!!,” he wrote on X.

While many who commented were perhaps older, younger players who’d retired in the 2020s also spoke about the loss.

“No fu***** way,” retired linebacker Will Compton wrote.

These sincere tributes highlight the influence the Hollywood star had through his craft and presence on the screen. As tributes continue to pour in, the legendary actor’s impact can be felt not just in the NFL but in various parts of the world.