Norman Hand, a defensive tackle who spent 10 years in the NFL playing for five different teams, has died, according to WCSC-TV (via the New Orleans Times-Picayune).
He was 37 years old.
Officially listed at six-foot-three and 310 pounds, the Queens native was a fifth-round pick of the Dolphins in 1995. He played college football at Mississippi.
After two years of spot duty in Miami, Hand was cut. The Chargers claimed him via waivers, and he spent three seasons in San Diego, the last two as a full-time starter. He then signed with the Saints as a free agent, and he was a fixture in the starting lineup for three seasons, next to Pro Bowler La’Roi Glover. Traded to Seattle in 2003, Hand ended his career with one season as a Seahawk and one with the Giants. He last played in the NFL in 2004.
His family issued the following statement: “Our beloved Norman was brought to the hospital earlier today. He was unresponsive and resuscitation not successful. He passed away early this afternoon surrounded by his family. Respect for our family will be greatly appreciated as we mourn this incomprehensible loss. We ask that you focus on Norman’s life and the contributions he made rather than on his untimely death.”
The cause of death has not been released.
We send our condolences to Hand’s family, friends, and former teammates.