JUST IN: Former Denver Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas passes away at 33

Tragic news to report out of the world of football tonight. 

After rumors began swirling on social media that former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas had suddenly passed away, they were soon confirmed by Denver journalist Benjamin Allbright:

A member of the 2015 Super Bowl winning squad, Thomas was originally drafted by the Broncos in 2010 with the 22nd overall selection. The former Georgia Tech receiver would go on to have a productive NFL career that spanned nine years, racking up 63 career receiving touchdowns along with 9,763 receiving yards and 724 catches. After his years with the Broncos, he'd later suit up for the Houston Texans, New England Patriots and New York Jets.

He called it a career this summer as a five-time Pro Bowler, retiring No. 2 all time in Broncos history in receiving yards (9,065) and touchdowns (60). 

"There's so many things I can say. I'm humble, grateful, appreciative," Thomas said upon his retirement. "I'm just happy to say I'm done and (football) did me well. I just wanted to be considered one of the best to come through Denver. I did my best each and every game -- but it wasn't really about me. I just wanted to go out there and do what's best for the team."

"I've been just trying to find myself. Leaving football is a tough thing. I was trying to find what I wanted to do next and build a relationship where I can help people, trying to find something that I love." 

A cause of death has yet to be announced. We send our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time.