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Son Of Bucs Kicker Bryant Dies

Posted Sep 24, 2008 by Roy Cummings

Updated Sep 24, 2008 at 04:53 PM

TAMPA - Bucs place kicker Matt Bryant’s infant son Matthew Tryson died Wednesday, Bucs coach Jon Gruden announced following the team’s practice.

“We’ve lost a member of our family,’’ Gruden said. “I don’t have many details on it. We just ask that Bucs fans keep Matt and his family in their prayers at this time.’‘

Tryson was born in June. Gruden said that as far as he knew, the child “just didn’t wake up this morning.’‘

The team knelt in prayer at the end of the workout Wednesday.

“It’s a horrible tragedy,’’ Gruden said. “This really puts things in perspective.’‘

According to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Debbie Carter, deputies responded to Bryant’s home at 7:33 a.m. Wednesday. The sheriff’s office is conducting a death investigation.

“It doesn’t appear to be suspicious,” Carter said of the 3-month-old’s death.

Carter said Bryant’s wife, Melissa, was getting the couple’s six children ready for school and when she went to wake up the 3-month-old, he did not respond.

“Like everyone, the news of Matt and Melissa Bryant’s son Tryson hit me hard today,’’ Bucs punter Josh Bidwell said in a statement issued by the team. “Having kids of my own I couldn’t imagine the pain that is associated with such a terrible loss. The entire extended Buccaneers family will be there for the Bryants in every way possible to help them during this difficult time. We hope that everyone keeps them in their thoughts and prayers.”

Gruden said he was uncertain whether the tragedy would keep Bryant from kicking in this week’s game against the Packers.

Bucs officials said information regarding donations or expressions of sympathy will be announced as soon as arrangements have been made.

The team also issued a statement from General Manager Bruce Allen: “The entire Buccaneer family is deeply saddened by this tragedy. The Bryants have been an inspiration to our entire community through their commitment to their family and their exhaustive efforts working with children and those in need in the Bay area. Our thoughts and prayers are with Matt and Melissa during this difficult time.’‘

—ROY CUMMINGS and RAYMOND REYES