“With a heavy heart,” cornerback Alterraun Verner will help the Tampa Bay Bucs battle the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.

After landing on Friday’s injury report with a “Not Injury Related” designation, it was revealed Saturday that Verner’s father has passed away. According to a press release from the team, Robert Lee Verner died Friday morning in Tampa.

Despite the tragic loss a day after Thanksgiving, Verner said he will be suiting up with his Tampa Bay teammates Sunday and playing in remembrance of his father. 

“With a heavy heart, we sadly report the loss of our beloved father, husband, grandpa and friend, Robert Lee Verner,” Alterraun Verner wrote in a statement attached to the press release. “We are thankful for his love and support. Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He will forever be cherished and missed.”

Last week in Kansas City, Verner saw his most extensive action since Week 3 against the Los Angeles Rams. The 46 defensive snaps he played against the Chiefs are far more than he’s contributed in the past six games combined (nine). The Bucs went to Verner after Brent Grimes went down early with an injury. Verner had been limited to special teams duties since the team settled on Grimes and Vernon Hargreaves III as its outside corners and Jude Adjei-Barimah at nickelback.