Former Giant Mitch Petrus passes away at age 32

Former New York Giants guard Mitch Petrus has passed away at age 32. Petrus died Thursday night after being taken to the hospital, apparently suffering from heat stroke.

The Giants drafted Petrus out of the University of Arkansas in the fifth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He quickly created a reputation for both boundless energy, as well as crushing strength, and became something of a cult hero among fans. Petrus was primarily a back-up and special teams player, but he did start three games — against the Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, and Washington Redskins — in the Giants’ championship 2011 season.

Petrus was waived by the Giants in the 2012 season, after which he played for the Tennessee Titans and New England Patriots. He left the NFL following the 2013 season and pursued his other passion: Music.

Here at Big Blue View, our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Petrus’ family and friends in this difficult time. And as training camps are set to get underway throughout the country, we would also like to remind everyone to stay hydrated.