Former Patriots Linebacker Junior Seau Dead From Apparent Suicide

Former Patriots linebacker Junior Seau is reportedly dead after committing suicide, according to multiple reports. (Matthew J. Lee / Globe file photo)

By Zuri Berry, Boston.com Staff

Former football player Junior Seau was found dead in his home, according to a report from TMZ.Police are investigating a shooting at the former New England Patriot and San Diego Charger’s home in Oceanside, Calif., according to multiple reports.

Seau, whose full name is Tiaina Baul Seau Jr., last played for the Patriots in 2009.

According to the North County Times, Seau committed suicide. A San Diego television station, 10news, also reported it was a suicide.

Seau’s All-Pro NFL career spanned 19 seasons. He was drafted No. 5 overall in the 1990 draft out of the University of Southern California, and played 12 stellar seasons for the San Diego Chargers. He was named an all-pro 10 times and to the Pro Bowl all 12 years he was with the Chargers. In 1994, he was named the AFC Player of the Year.

In 2003, Seau was traded to the Miami Dolphins, but was released in March 2006. He was limited in his time with the Dolphins because of torn pectoral muscle.

Seau announced his retirement from football in 2006, but then days later was picked up by the Patriots. He went on to start 10 of 11 games played in the 2006 season before breaking his arm. He announced his intention to retire again in 2010.

In his career, he tallied 1,849 tackles and 56.5 sacks.