Former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Allen Bailey has died at 37, prompting tributes from the NFL teams, coaches and former teammates who knew him throughout his decade-long professional football career.

Bailey was found dead at his home in Florida on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, according to reports citing his family. His death became public the following day, when the Chiefs and head coach Andy Reid acknowledged the loss. As of October 22, authorities had not announced an official cause of death.

Bailey’s brother, Alford Bailey Jr., told TMZ that the family believes he died of natural causes. That account has been reported by multiple outlets, but it should not be treated as a confirmed medical finding while an official cause remains undisclosed.

Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes Pay Tribute

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid remembered Bailey as a favourite player and expressed sympathy for his family.

“Our hearts go out to his family,” Reid said during a news conference Wednesday. “Way too young, obviously. One of my favorite players. Great kid.”

Kansas City also issued a statement describing Bailey as an excellent teammate, a generous man and a kind soul. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who played alongside Bailey during his early seasons with the Chiefs, recalled how the defensive lineman made an immediate impression when Mahomes first entered the team’s locker room in 2017.

Mahomes described Bailey as a dependable teammate whose contributions helped hold the team together. The Atlanta Falcons also expressed condolences following news of his death.

From Sapelo Island to the NFL

Bailey grew up on Sapelo Island, Georgia, before attending the University of Miami, where he played for the Hurricanes from 2007 to 2010. His college performances earned him All-Atlantic Coast Conference recognition.

The Kansas City Chiefs selected Bailey in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft, 86th overall. He played eight seasons in Kansas City, from 2011 through 2018, before joining the Atlanta Falcons for the 2019 and 2020 seasons.

Across 133 regular-season games, Bailey recorded 248 tackles, 22 sacks and seven fumble recoveries. He also appeared in six postseason games, finishing with 10 tackles and two sacks. His strength and physical presence earned him the nickname “The Hulk” during his football career.

Cause of Death Remains Unconfirmed

Bailey’s death at 37 has prompted grief throughout the football community. While his family reportedly believes natural causes may have been responsible, no official cause had been released in the latest reports reviewed.

For now, his legacy rests on his NFL career and the memories shared by those who played and worked with him. His former teams have extended condolences to his family and friends as they mourn his death.