Wes Hopkins, former Eagles safety, dies at 57

This week has not been a good one for Philadelphia Eagles alumni.

Eagles legend and Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Tommy McDonald passed away on Monday. Now former Eagles safety Wes Hopkins has died at the age of 57 years old, according to a report from his former teammate, Garry Cobb.

Hopkins, a second-round pick out of SMU, played for the Eagles for his entire NFL career from 1983 through 1993. In 137 games (125 starts), Hopkins logged 30 interceptions, 19 forced fumbles, 12 sacks, and one defensive touchdown. He made the Pro Bowl after recording six picks during the 1985 season.

Hopkins once combined with fellow starting safety Andre Waters to form one of the most fearsome tandems in the league. He was a staple of Buddy Ryan’s hard-nosed defenses. Hopkins was a member of a 1991 Eagles defense that’s considered by some to be the best defense of all-time.

Rest in peace, Wes Hopkins.

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UPDATE: Official statement from Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie.

“Wes Hopkins is one of the best safeties in the history of our franchise and played a major role in the team’s success during his time here in Philadelphia. He was well-respected among his teammates and coaches, not only because of the way he played the game and what he was able to accomplish on the field, but also because of the way he carried himself and the type of leader he was. He had a genuine love of the game and that’s one of the reasons he connected so well with the people of Philadelphia. Wes will be forever remembered as an Eagles Legend and somebody who helped build the foundation for our organization’s success. Our thoughts are with his family during this time.”