Former Raiders Offensive Lineman Mario Henderson Dies at 35

Former Oakland Raiders offensive lineman Mario Henderson has tragically passed away at 35. Henderson played with the team for four seasons.

The Oakland Raiders are mourning the loss of their beloved teammate and former player, Mario Henderson, who passed away at 35. The team confirmed his passing in a statement that read:

“The Raiders Family is heavy-hearted following the passing of Mario Henderson, who was a third-round draft pick and played four seasons with the Silver and Black.”

They expressed their grief and said they would miss Henderson’s sense of humor and passion, which he exhibited in every area of his life. They concluded, sending their condolences to his loved ones.

The Raiders suffered another heartbreaking loss in September when linebacker Neiron Ball passed away from an aneurysm rupture as a result of a rare brain condition

Henderson, who played an offensive tackle lineman and spent the first four years of his career with the team, died on Wednesday, October 21. The cause of death hasn’t been revealed yet. His shocking death shook the NFL, and many of his colleagues took to social media to pay their heartfelt tributes.

His college teammate and friend Graham Geno, who plays for the New York Giants, honored Henderson’s legacy in a touching tweet. Alongside a photo of the deceased on the pitch, Geno wrote that he was hurt after hearing about Henderson’s death. He continued:

“Mario was always a joy to talk to and always brought laughter wherever he went. I’m going to miss you, Big Cuz.”

Henderson, who is from Florida, was drafted out of Florida State University in 2007 and joined the Oakland Raiders. He played 44 games with them, after which he went on to sign with the Chargers in 2012.

The Raiders suffered another heartbreaking loss in September when linebacker Neiron Ball passed away from an aneurysm rupture as a result of a rare brain condition he had for about a year. Ball was 27 at the time of his demise and was with the Oakland Raiders until his passing.

He joined the team as a 5th round NFL Draft pick in 2015 and in his short time with them, Ball played six games before succumbing to an injury that ended his career.

He was initially diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation during his time with the Florida Gators, but that didn’t stop him from giving the sport his all. He was survived by his four siblings, parents, and the two daughters he left behind.

This year has particularly been challenging for the sports industry, as many talented athletes have lost their lives. The long list includes basketballer Kobe Bryant, coach John Thompson, Gale Sayers, Rickey Dixon, and Tom Seaver. May their souls rest in peace.