Linsey Devey, the widow of former NFL player Jordan Devey, shared a heart-wrenching moment when she told their eldest son, Cash, about his father’s suicide. Cash, who is only 11, ran outside and unleashed a scream that no child should ever have to express.
Jordan Devey, a Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, tragically took his own life in July at the age of 38.
In an Instagram post last month, Linsey reflected on their firstborn, highlighting the deep sense of protectiveness he feels toward their family. She noted that although Cash experiences emotions intensely, he often keeps them hidden, as if he believes he must be strong for her, much like his father was. “He has Jordan’s heart,” she wrote. “The same kindness. The same compassion. The same spiritual strength that made so many people feel safe.”
Linsey recounted the devastating moment when Cash held his father’s hand for the last time. In that instant, he lost a father, a best friend, and a mentor—someone who taught him essential life lessons about love and leadership.
“The day I broke the news to Cash that his dad had gone to Heaven, his world fell apart. He screamed, a sound filled with grief that I can’t forget. But soon after, he returned to me with tears still in his eyes. Summoning a strength I believe comes from his faith, he said, ‘Mom, we can do this together. Don’t take your own life.’ His words, so wise for his age, reassured me that we wouldn’t face this alone,” Linsey described.
Watching her son navigate his grief has unexpectedly deepened her faith. “I thought I was the one instilling faith in my kids, but it turns out they’ve taught me so much,” she wrote.
“Cash, you are a spiritual giant—just like your dad. I have faith that the same Savior carrying me is also with you,” she added, expressing pride and love.
In a recent Instagram Story, Linsey noted that it had been “79 days without him.” Her bio speaks to her healing journey: “Honoring his life. Carrying his legacy.”
In an interview in July with a local news outlet, Jordan’s mother mentioned the family believes he may have suffered from CTE, although they cannot confirm it due to the circumstances surrounding his death.
Over seven seasons in the NFL, Jordan played in 44 games and started in 21, representing teams such as the Patriots, 49ers, Chiefs, Raiders, and Bills. He enjoyed a memorable moment winning a Super Bowl with the Patriots in the 2014 season.
Jordan retired from professional football in 2021 after appearing in a single game for the Buffalo Bills the previous year and was remembered as a cherished high school football coach in his community.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or related issues, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
If you are in crisis, you can call the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
