Former Texans President Jamey Rootes Dies After Mental Health Battle

It was revealed on Monday evening that former Houston Texans team president Jamey Rootes had sadly passed away after a battle with mental health issues.

Rootes joined the Texans in 2001 prior to their inaugural season. Initially serving as the team's senior vice president of marketing, in 2005 he became team president - a role which he filled up until his resignation in February this year.

The McNair ownership family released the following statement:

We are heartbroken to learn that former Houston Texans President Jamey Rootes has passed away. For two decades, Jamey led our business operations with an unwavering commitment to Houston and the Houston Texans. We are grateful for his steadfast leadership and immeasurable contributions to our team. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Jamey's wife, Melissa, and their two children during this extremely difficult time.

Rootes helped to guide the Texans from the league's freshest face to the 10th most profitable team as of 2020, according to Forbes.

Upon his decision to step aside this year, the Texans said he wished to follow his interests as a writer, public speaker, consultant, and professor at the University of Houston.

"I think the organization is in a great place from a business perspective," Rootes told The Chronicle back in February. "We’ve got a great leadership team. I thought the time was right for me to do something different."

Tributes to Rootes from around the league began pouring out on social media immediately following the news.

So sad to hear the news about Jamey Rootes. Was a great man and was always positive around the building. Prayers for his family 🙏🏾
— Justin Reid (@JustinqReid) August 23, 2022

Very sad news to hear of former Texans team president Jamey Rootes' passing. He was a very nice guy who was deeply committed to the team and charitable efforts throughout the Houston area. Deepest condolences to his family. Rest in peace, Jamey
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) August 23, 2022

I took this photo of Jamey Rootes (far left) maybe a month or so ago. He was influential in making ‘A Toast to John McClain’ which raised $15,000 for the ‘Be An Angel’ foundation. The guy was always making things happen behind the scenes. RIP 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/onMXWLGLst
— B.Scott from Hiram Clarke (@brandonkscott) August 23, 2022

Jamey Rootes had so many fans and friends. I feel terrible for Melissa and his children and his other family members. Such a tragedy! Rest In Peace, Jamey. Hopefully, you’ll see Bob McNair again soon.
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) August 23, 2022

While Rootes' cause of death has not been officially revealed, his wife Melissa Wildgen Rootes stated on her Facebook page that he had been suffering from mental health issues before his passing on Sunday.

Jamey was best known for his devotion to his family and friends but was also former President of the Houston Texans, retiring in 2021. Jamey was a dedicated Houstonian who loved his city and touched so many lives through his professional, academic, and philanthropic work. Our family is requesting privacy and will not be responding to media inquiries. The details of a celebration of Jamey's life will be announced at a later date.

If you or a loved are thinking about suicide, or experiencing a health crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline right now at 1-800-273-8255