Former NFL team president dies aged 56
Jamey Rootes, the former chairman of the Houston Texans team, passed away on Sunday at age 56.
His wife, Melissa Rootes, confirmed his death Monday in a Facebook post, viaHouston’s KPRC TV.
“Our family is heartbroken to confirm that after a battle with mental health issues, Jamey Rootes passed away on Sunday, August 21, 2022, in Houston, Texas,” wrote Melissa Rootes. Jamey was best known for his dedication to his family and friends, but was also a former president of the Houston Texans, who will retire in 2021.
The Texans have issued a statement on behalf of the McNair family expressing their condolences to Melissa and her two children.
“For two decades, Jamey led our business with an unwavering commitment to Houston and the Houston Texans,” the statement read. “We are grateful for his steadfast leadership and immeasurable contributions to our team.”
Rootes took over as president of Houston in 2000 after serving as president and general manager of Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew. He accepted a position as CEO of Houston Dynamo and Dash after leaving the Texans, but resigned weeks later.
Melissa Rootes requested privacy on behalf of her family and encouraged anyone going through a mental health crisis to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
