The Detroit Lions family is mourning the loss of one of its most dependable defensive players of the 1990s. Tracy Scroggins, a longtime defensive end for the franchise, has passed away at the age of 56. The team announced his death on Monday, though no cause was provided.

Scroggins spent his entire NFL career with the Lions, playing 10 seasons after being selected in the second round of the 1992 NFL Draft. Known for his relentless motor and physical style of play, he became one of the most productive pass rushers in franchise history. Since sacks became an official NFL statistic in 1982, only Robert Porcher and Michael Cofer recorded more sacks for Detroit than Scroggins.

Over the course of his career, Scroggins totaled 60½ sacks and appeared in 142 regular-season games, starting 89 of them. He recorded at least six sacks in seven different seasons, showcasing his consistency as a pass rusher. His best statistical season came in 1995, when he posted career highs with 9½ sacks and 45 tackles. That year, he also forced two fumbles and returned one for a touchdown, highlighting his ability to make game-changing plays.

Scroggins played a key role in helping the Lions reach the playoffs five times during his tenure. While he may not have received the same national attention as some of the league’s elite defenders, his impact in Detroit was undeniable. Coaches and teammates valued his toughness, work ethic, and leadership on and off the field.

A native of Checotah, Oklahoma, Scroggins was a multi-sport athlete in high school, competing in football, basketball, and track. He began his college career at Coffeyville Community College in Kansas before transferring to the University of Tulsa, where he emerged as a standout defensive player and caught the attention of NFL scouts.

Following his retirement, Scroggins remained a respected figure among former teammates and Lions fans who remembered him as a cornerstone of Detroit’s defensive units in the 1990s. His passing is a reminder of the lasting bond between the franchise and the players who helped shape its history.

The Lions organization, along with fans across the NFL community, continues to honor Scroggins’ contributions to the game and to Detroit. His legacy lives on through his on-field achievements and the impact he made as a Lion for a decade.