NFL Legend Matt Stevens Dead At 51

Matt Stevens, a former defensive back in the NFL, has passed away at 51 years old. The news was announced by his family.

Stevens’ died Mar. 20, per an obituary, His cause of death has not been revealed.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Matthew Stevens age 51, beloved son and father,” read the obituary.

Since he retired in 2003 from football, Stevens lived in Durham, North Carolina. (RELATED: Former NFL Star LeShon Johnson Hit With Charges After Allegedly Running Largest Dog Fighting Ring Ever Busted By FBI)

A two-time All-American in college football, Stevens became a star at Appalachian State. He’s a part of the App State Athletics Hall of Fame.

Appalachian State’s football program issued their condolences to the family of Stevens.

Stevens was picked in the third round by the Buffalo Bills in the 1996 NFL Draft. When he played for the then-Washington Redskins in 1999, Stevens tallied six interceptions in the regular season, which was a career-high.

The New England Patriots are deeply saddened by the passing of Super Bowl champion Matt Stevens: https://t.co/BFhgnVHQV8 pic.twitter.com/BabLtKfMFg

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) March 27, 2025

In 2001, Stevens suited up for the New England Patriots, where he won a championship ring when the franchise won Super Bowl XXXVI. That year, the Pats defeated the St. Louis Rams, 20-17, and brought New England their first Super Bowl championship in team history — and began their Tom Brady-led dynasty.

Throughout his career, Stevens played for five NFL organizations.

Stevens’ memorial service is set for Mar. 28, with it taking place in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.