Former NFL and CFL star Milt Stegall has finally broken his silence after the heartbreaking death of his oldest son Chase. The 20-year-old DePaul University soccer player was found dead in his dorm room on June 2.
"Thank you to the entire @CFL community," Milt shared in an emotional statement on social media. The 55-year-old specifically thanked his CFL on TSN colleagues and the broader Canadian Football League family for their overwhelming support during this difficult time.
The former Cincinnati Bengals player expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love. "Every tribute, every call, every message, post, or sign, every act of love has wrapped my family and me in comfort," he wrote.
A Promising Young Athlete Gone Too Soon
Chase Stegall was a sophomore on DePaul University's men's soccer team. He played in 16 out of 17 games during the 2024 season and scored one goal against Drake University.
The young athlete had previously opened up about his health struggles. Chase had battled seizures that sometimes prevented him from playing. In February, he wrote about how his teammates supported him through these challenges.
DePaul's athletics director and soccer coach released a touching statement following Chase's passing. "We are heartbroken by the unexpected loss of Chase Stegall, a cherished member of our community, dedicated teammate and kind-hearted friend," they said.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of Chase's death. Officials from the Cook County medical examiner's office are investigating the tragedy.
Football Community Rallies Around Stegall Family
Athletic excellence runs in the Stegall family. Milt played three seasons in the NFL before joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, where he spent 14 impressive seasons in the CFL.
Since retiring, Milt has worked as a broadcaster and analyst for CFL on TSN since 2009. His colleagues at the network have expressed their devastation.
"Our CFL on TSN family is absolutely devastated over Chase's passing," producer Chris Edwards stated. "If you know Milt, you know that his family is everything to him."
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers also shared a heartfelt message: "Chase was a bright and talented young man with a promising future, and his loss is felt deeply across our entire Blue Bombers family."
Milt, his wife Darlene, and their younger son Collin continue to receive support from across the football world. In his statement, Milt asked for continued prayers: "Please continue to keep us in your prayers. We feel them. And I hope to see you all again soon."
The entire football community stands united in grief alongside one of the sport's respected figures as he faces this unimaginable loss.
