Parys Haralson, a former 49ers linebacker and staff member, has passed away at age 37, the team confirmed Monday.
The cause of death is not immediately known.
“The 49ers are heartbroken and shocked by the news of Parys’ tragic passing,” read a team statement. “Parys was a beloved member of our organization that lived life with an extraordinary amount of passion and joy, while leaving an indelible mark on everyone he came across.
“We extend our condolences to Parys’ family and loved ones.”
Haralson, a San Jose resident, was a 2006 fifth-round draft pick and spent seven seasons with the 49ers until they traded him right before their 2013 season. He missed the previous season’s Super Bowl run because of a triceps injury in training camp.
A fun and approachable player, Haralson returned to the 49ers in 2016 and served two seasons as their director of player engagement.
Former teammate Donte Whitner tweeted his respects Monday afternoon: “R.I.P to my former teammate and Friend Parys Haralson aka P-Town. Praying for his family.”
After an emotional goodbye in the 49ers’ locker room upon his Aug. 26, 2013 trade to the Saints, Haralson played his final two seasons in New Orleans. He totaled 28 career sacks, and of the 21 1/2 he had with the 49ers, his final two produced fumbles in a 2011 season-opening win over the Seattle Seahawks.
In 2008, Haralson preserved a win over the New York Jets with 1 1/2 sacks against Brett Favre.
Haralson’s bio in the 49ers’ 2011 media guide aptly described him as: “A student of the game, Parys Haralson uses his unique combination of speed and size to terrorize opposing quarterbacks. Haralson developed his meticulous work ethic at a young age, working in his grandfather’s junk yard.”
Haralson was born in Flora, Mississippi on Jan. 24, 1984. He attended Madison Central High School, where he won a state championship his sophomore season before developing into an All-American his senior year. He went on to the University of Tennessee, had 32 sacks that were the fifth-most in school history and he graduated with a degree in criminology.
mistakes but I'm lost for understanding & words seeing the impact you had on people around you. I guess he needed you in higher place. love you P-TOWN. #ParysHaralson #Brotherhood
— Takeo Spikes, M.B.A (@TakeoSpikes51) September 14, 2021
R.I.P to my former teammate and Friend Parys Haralson aka P-Town. Praying for his family.
— DonteHitner31 (@DonteWhitner) September 13, 2021
Crazy how I wake up from Sleep to find out my former teammate Parys Haralson passed away in his. RIP to a 49er Legend
— CJ SPILLMAN (@CJSPILLMAN27) September 13, 2021
I just got the call. This breaks my heart. Parys was full of fun and always, always smiling on the field. He made me laugh. Rest-in-peace. #49ers https://t.co/Avj5nV3gqy
— Mindi Bach (@MBachSports) September 13, 2021