Denver Broncos tight end Noah Fant faced a profound personal tragedy with the unexpected passing of his mother, Kathy Jean Fant, at the age of 53. Her sudden death due to illness came as a shock to many, including those within the Broncos organization. Funeral services were held in Omaha, Nebraska, attended by several team members and staff, including General Manager George Paton, Coach Vic Fangio, Vice President of Player Development Ray Jackson, and players Von Miller and Drew Lock. Their presence deeply moved Fant, highlighting the strong support system within the team
Fant shared that he was exceptionally close to his mother, describing himself as a “momma’s boy.” They communicated daily, and her unwavering support played a significant role in his life and career. Reflecting on their relationship, Fant acknowledged the challenges they faced but emphasized the deep bond they shared. He expressed that continuing to play football and striving for excellence is his way of honoring her memory. Fant aspires to reach the top tier of NFL tight ends, aiming to compete with the likes of Travis Kelce, George Kittle, and Darren Waller, a goal he had often discussed with his mother.
In addition to Fant’s loss, the Broncos community has witnessed other players coping with personal tragedies. Wide receiver KJ Hamler opened up about experiencing suicidal thoughts following his ACL injury and the death of his grandmother, who was a significant figure in his life. Hamler emphasized the importance of seeking help and the strength he found in faith to overcome his struggles. Similarly, former Broncos offensive lineman Tyler Polumbus honored his mother, Nancy, who battled ovarian cancer for six years before passing away. In her memory, Polumbus organized a 100-mile bike ride around Empower Field at Mile High to raise funds for ovarian cancer research.
These stories underscore the resilience of Broncos players in the face of personal loss and the supportive environment fostered within the team. Through their grief, players like Fant, Hamler, and Polumbus channel their emotions into their professional pursuits, honoring their loved ones by striving for excellence on and off the field.
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