Norfolk State head coach and Virginia Tech alum Michael Vick is mourning the loss of a former teammate who passed away yesterday. Former Virginia Tech DB Ronyell Whitaker died at the age of 46. The Whitaker family announced the death in a statement.

“While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments, those closest to him knew him best for his generous heart, unwavering loyalty and deep love for his family. He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him,” a part of the statement read.

The nephew of the late boxing legend Pernell Whitaker, Ronyell played for the Hokies in the early 2000s, where he was a three-time starter, earning Big East All-Conference & AP All-American honors twice. Whitaker and Vick shared a locker room together during that time. The latter took to social media to mourn the loss of his friend.

“R.I.P. Ronyell Whitaker … Virginia Tech Alum“, Vick wrote on his social media post on Facebook.

After his collegiate career, Whitaker went undrafted in the 2002 NFL Draft and was signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. He spent time with several professional teams, including the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions, and even was a part of the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers and NFL Europe’s Rhein Fire.

One of Whitaker’s most notable performances came in 2006, when he led NFL Europe in interceptions and passing touchdowns. He recorded 141 yards returning the ball for two touchdowns. This also included the 100-yard interception, which he returned to score a touchdown. His crucial performance with the Fire earned him the All-NFL Europe team honors.

Whitaker spent his last two seasons with the Detroit Lions and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, but didn’t see any game time. He was a part of their offseason and practice squad before announcing his retirement in 2010. His final season brought his professional football career to an end, with 43 total tackles, one fumble recovery, and three pass deflections.

More than a football DB, Ronyell was one of the most respected athletes, teammates, and a mentor. People at Virginia Tech knew him as ‘Deuce,’ the name he earned for his aggressive coverage, confidence, and ability to make big plays at crucial moments.

Craig Peters, the Senior Editor at Vikings.com, recounted an anecdote from four years ago that showed the kind of person Whitaker was. The former DB joined some military members to participate in the United Heroes League’s “Strapped” Confidence Course. It featured 18 obstacles, and despite an overwhelming fear of heights, Whitaker showed how he tackled life: with prime confidence.

“Equipped with the purple and white gloves he wore while playing for the Vikings, as well as some patriotic stars and stripes socks, Whitaker began his way up the gigantic ladder,” Peters wrote. “He confronted his fear as people below provided encouragement, and Sing gave tips for the important transition over the top rung.”

“When he firmly put his feet back on the ground, Whitaker trembled as he screamed, “In the famous words of my man Kevin Garnett, anything is possible!”” Peters recounted.

The reason for his death remains unknown. He is survived by family, friends, and a large group of fans. The Whitaker family will release the details about funeral arrangements in the coming days.

Ronyell Whitaker’s career beyond football

Beyond being a footballer, reports from the past indicate he was a two-sport athlete who also played basketball in his early years. He was the No. 3 CB prospect of the Hokies and the No. 6 CB of his recruiting class.

After stepping away from professional football, Whitaker remained involved in the sport and the football community. He reportedly worked in real estate services and still helped a lot of young athletes, offering mentorship and coaching through the life lessons he earned from his playing experience with the Hokies.

Per public information, Whitaker returned to Minnesota in 2011 as the CEO and owner of his privately owned real estate organization, Whitaker Group LLC, in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area. His team was well-versed in relocation transactions for the Vikings, and he also drove short sales through his stint.

His continued involvement in mentoring and youth development highlighted the leadership qualities that teammates often praised throughout his career.