The football world is taking a moment to reflect and mourn the loss of former Colorado Buffaloes safety Clyde Surrell. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, life was not too kind to the former football player in his last few years. As shared by his fiancé Maile on his GoFundMe page, Surrell’s health problems started when he suffered a stroke in 2018.

Just as he was recovering, he suffered another setback. On September 8, 2020, Surrell experienced another stroke and seizure while driving to a grocery store. As he fell unconscious, Surrell drove across a median and crashed into a house. “Thankfully, Clyde only had minor injuries from the accident, but he suffered a blood clot on the right side of his brain and now has partial paralysis on his left side,” Maile wrote.

“He had the exact same type of stroke as the first time. Everything was just on the opposite side,” she added. With the responsibility of five children on their shoulders, situations have not completely gone the Surrell family’s way as Colorado’s official X handle announced his death. “We are saddened to hear the passing of former Buff, Clyde Surrell. Sending our condolences to his family and friends.” While the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed, reports suggest Surrell had been battling a long-term illness.

Considering the legacy he left behind, there’s no doubt his memory will live on. And it won’t be just for his contributions and achievements on the football field. As reported by Athlon Sports, the 41-year-old earned SuperPrep and USA TODAY Sports All-American honors as a senior. He also earned All-Centenial League honors in back-to-back seasons. Beyond his athletic and football life, his life was always marked by resilience.

After his 2018 stroke, he embarked on a courageous journey of recovery with the unwavering support of his family and friends. As shared by his fiance, Surrell approached each session with unparalleled determination, refusing to be defined by his circumstances.

With his passing, the Surrell family is facing the toughness of life. His fiance and five children will remember the legacy he has left behind as a symbol of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Irrespective of these challenges, she remained dedicated to Surrell, serving as a beacon of strength for her family and the entire world as a caregiver.

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Clyde Surrell’s larger-than-life energy during his playing days

Clyde Surrell’s journey in Colorado’s gridiron began in the early 2000s. He donned the black and gold jersey of the Colorado Buffaloes confidently, hailing from Aurora, Colorado. He showcased exceptional skills as a safety throughout his collegiate career from 2000 to 2003. Surrell had solidified his place as a defensive powerhouse. He had a breakout season in 2002 with 71 total tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 1 interception.

As reported by on3.com, “When Colorado won a Big 12 championship in 2001, Surrell had 6 tackles on defense and took 3 kickoff returns back for 48 yards.” Over his career, Surrell saw action in 41 games and made 15 starts for the Buffaloes. His colleagues widely appreciated him. Now, his loss serves as a big hole in the hearts of football fans and players alike.

Colorado’s former offensive lineman Tyler Polumbus – who played with Surrell in 2003 – expressed his grief on X upon hearing the news. “Clyde Surrell was Energy,” he wrote. “He was larger than life with a huge smile at all times, he made you laugh, and he could cut through the tension in any room with a witty joke. Not to mention one hell of a football player. Just flat out sad.”

Continue Reading: “RIP Brother”: Colorado Buffaloes and Fans in Deep Mourning as Boulder Loses 41YO Former Safety Clyde Surrell