Former Lions safety William White has passed away after battle with ALS

The Detroit Lions family lost a member this week, as former safety William White passed away after a long battle with ALS.

The Detroit Lions family lost someone this week After a six-year battle with ALS, the team announced former safety William White has passed away. He was 56 years old.

White was a fourth-round pick (No. 85 overall) by the Lions in 1988 out of Ohio State. He was a key cog in the Detroit defense for the following six seasons, appearing in 95 games (79 starts) with 13 interceptions (two seasons with at least four). He had more than 75 total tackles in five straight campaigns for the Lions (1989-1993).

The Lions traded White to the Kansas City Chiefs before the 1994 season. He played three seasons for the Chiefs, followed by two with the Atlanta Falcons to complete his 11-season career.

Lions special assistant Chris Spielman was a college teammate of White’s at Ohio State, and they came to the Lions in the same draft. Spielman offered a statement on White’s passing.

"I loved William,”  “We shared experiences of joy and sorrow on and off the field. He was and always will be my brother. I am forever grateful for the special moment last year when he was able to be by my side during the Pride of the Lions ceremony at Ford Field. I can’t wait to see him again when he will be free from ALS.May God’s peace rest upon his family.”"

Former Lions safety William White passes away after long battle with ALS

Lions head coach Dan Campbell opened his Friday press conference by extending condolences to White’s family.

"Praying for them,” Campbell said. “I think any time you’re part of this profession, this brotherhood, and you hear news like that, it does hit pretty hard. I know for Chris this is hard. Chris was close to him, as well. Certainly thinking about him and his family.”"