Chris Henry: May 17, 1983 - December 17, 2009

The sports world got a sad reminder today of just how fleeting life can be with the news of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry passing due to injures he sustained in a car related accident on Wednesday.

Much has been said and written about Henry and his troubles off the field during his all-too-short NFL career. Today, none of that matters.

Henry leaves behind three children who will now have to go through life without their father.

The Bengals will wear a #15 decal on their helmets for the duration of the season as a tribute to their fallen teammate.

Despite his many troubles, Henry had been given a second chance by the organization that originally drafted him. Those who were close to Henry have all gone on the record stating that he was making great strides in improving his character.  

At a very young 26-years-of-age, Henry had his entire life in front of him. The circumstances surrounding his death will certainly be a talking point in the near future. But that is for those close to the situation to be concerned with. For the rest of us who only knew Chris Henry the football player, we are saddened that the NFL has lost a young talent. For those who knew Chris Henry the human being, they are saddened at the loss of a friend and that a father has left behind his family.

Our thoughts go out to Chris Henry and his family.