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Robert Kraft Joins Junior Seau’s Teammates, Friends in Honoring Linebacker After Death

Junior Seau's reach extended far beyond the locker room.

Former teammates, sportswriters and fans spoke out in honor of Seau on Tuesday after news surfaced that he died of a gunshot wound. Everyone remembered a career full of high points and good times.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft joined in the memories Tuesday.

"Every day, Junior Seau greeted his teammates and coaches with an energetic 'Hey, Buddy!'" Kraft said in a statement released by the team. "It was genuine, enthusiastic and backed by his radiant smile."

Kraft said Seau found him after every game in each of the four seasons the linebacker spent in New England. Seau would give Kraft "a big hug and squeeze tighter than anyone I remember."

"He was passionate about football and always spoke with great conviction," Kraft said. "He may have been one of the most charismatic Patriots players in franchise history."

Kraft said Seau was beloved by fans in both New England and San Diego, where he played for 13 years. Seau was also with the Dolphins for three years.

"Today, the fans of the teams for which Junior played — San Diego, Miami and New England — lost more than a legendary football player," Kraft said. "We lost our 'Buddy.' My thoughts and prayers are with his family, and I extend my sincere condolences to his many friends and former teammates."