Jeff Lewis and Bryan Stoltenberg, Former Carolina Panthers Passed Away

Charlotte, NC Jan. 7, 2013 – Jeff Lewis and Bryan Stoltenberg, Panthers teammates in 1999 and 2000, both passed away over the weekend.

Jeff Lewis (left) and Bryan Stoltenberg (right)

Lewis, 40, died in Phoenix on Saturday. Stoltenberg, 39, died in Sugarland, Texas, on Friday.

“We are very saddened to learn the news of the passing of former players Jeff Lewis and Bryan Stoltenberg,” the Panthers released in a statement. “Both men always represented the team and organization in the best possible manner, and our thoughts and prayers go to their families.”

Lewis played in seven games at quarterback for the Panthers from 1999-2000. He completed 18-of-35 passes for 131 yards with one interception and rushed 12 times for 37 yards. The Northern Arizona graduate, who was wide receivers coach for his alma mater at the time of his death, spent his first three NFL seasons with the Denver Broncos.

Stoltenberg was a member of the Panthers from 1998-2000. The offensive lineman played in 42 games with 18 starts at center, right guard and left guard. A product of the University of Colorado, Stoltenberg began his NFL career with the San Diego Chargers in 1996 and played for the New York Giants in 1997.

Both players saw the final regular season action of their pro careers with the Panthers.