Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Matt Bryant and his wife Melissa issued a statement late Wednesday night regarding the passing of their youngest son, Matthew Tryson Bryant, who died on Wednesday morning.

Tryson was born on June 16. Although details were not immediately available, Bucs head coach Jon Gruden suggested on Wednesday afternoon that Tryson's death was unexpected.

"I don't have many details, but from what I understand the young man just didn't wake up this morning," said Gruden. "It's shocking, but again, I don't have any more details than that."

The Buccaneers took a knee and held a prayer for Matt and Melissa Bryant at the conclusion of Wednesday afternoon's practice at One Buccaneer Place.

Matt and Melissa Bryant issued the following statement on Wednesday night.

"Melissa and I are overcome with the amount of support we have received from the community during this difficult time.  We would like to thank our Buccaneers family and the Glazers for their support and outpouring of love.



"Tryson enriched our lives for the short time that he was with us and we will never forget his smile.  We know Tryson's death has deeply touched the community and we appreciate the love and prayers from our Buccaneers fans."  

Gruden said on Wednesday that the Bucs would determine later in the week whether Bryant could play vs. the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

Tryson is survived by Matt and Melissa, and siblings Daniel, Jacob, Joshua, Madison and Tre'.

The Bryants also want to thank the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Hillsborough County Sherriff's Office for their assistance and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tryson's name to March of Dimes.

March of Dimes
405 North Reo Street Suite 105
Tampa, Fl 33609
(81) 287-2600

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