The Denver Broncos franchise and its fans were rocked with the tragic news that beloved wide receiver Demaryius Thomas passed away at the early age of 33.

Former Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow joined the team alongside Thomas as fellow first-round picks back in 2010. Beyond the player that he was, a four-time Pro Bowler with a Super Bowl ring, Tebow wanted to remember Demaryius Thomas as a person.

Via Twitter:

“Woke up and saw the really devastating news about my teammate and friend, Demaryius Thomas,” said the ex-Broncos QB. “So many are going to remember him for his athletic ability… but I’ll be remembering him for his kindness, his smile that would light up a room, and the love he had for those in his life.”

Demaryius Thomas and Tim Tebow will forever be linked thanks to the monster 80-yard touchdown connection they made back in the 2011 AFC wild card game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tebow found Thomas on the very first play of overtime and propelled them to the next round of postseason play.

While Tebow was eventually replaced by Peyton Manning in the offseason that followed, his appreciation for Thomas never waned even after his departure from the Broncos. He even sent a message to Demaryius following his retirement announcement earlier this year – again emphasizing the human being that he was.

“Love always being around you, being with you. You made other people’s lives better because they were in your presence.”

Rest in power, Demaryius Thomas.