Former Iowa and New York Giants safety Tyler Sash was found dead at his home Tuesday.
Sash, 27, played for head coach Kirk Ferentz at Iowa from 2008 to 2010 and was a member of the 2011 and 2012 New York Giants. He was drafted in the sixth round in 2011 and won a Super Bowl with the Giants.
The cause of death was not immediately confirmed by authorities. An autopsy is planned for Wednesday. The Iowa state medical examiner is investigating.
Ferentz canceled his scheduled press conference Tuesday in Iowa City.
"We are all very saddened to hear about the untimely loss of Tyler," Ferentz said in a statement. "It is always so difficult when it involves someone this young. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to Tyler's family during his extremely difficult time -- and we want them to know they are not alone in this.
"The commitment, passion and excitement that Tyler brought to football and to life will always endear him to Hawkeye coaches, teammates and fans. He touched our hearts in many ways and will be missed by all of us."
Former Giants teammates expressed shock and sadness after learning of Sash's death.
"My prayers and condolences go out to @TSash family. This is heartbreaking. Feels like I am dreaming. I am literally hurting right now," tweeted Chicago Bears safety Antrel Rolle, who played with Sash in the NFL with the Giants.
"RIP Tyler Sash. Can't believe this news. Great guy," tweeted Osi Umenyiora, a former Giants defensive lineman who recently retired.
