RIP Gaines Adams

Gaines Adams,  a defensive end for the Chicago Bears, died this morning of cardiac arrest at only 26 years old.  An autopsy showed that Adam had an enlarged heart, a condition that no one, including his family, was aware of.

Adams was born in Greenwood, South Carolina and went to Clemson University.  After a stand out senior year in 2006, where he tied the school record for number of career sacks (28), he became one of seven unanimous All-Americans.

He was picked fourth overall in the 2007 draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  He signed a 6 year contact with them worth $46 million ($18.6 million guaranteed).  He ended his rookie season with 35 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles, which earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie team.  His success continued into the 2008 season as well.

On October 19, 2009, Adams was traded to the Bears.  He played 10 games for them this season.

While toxicology tests are being run, there is no foul play or drugs suspected.