Theodore “TJ” John Cottrell II, born May 3, 1982, in Kansas City, Missouri, at Menorah Medical Center, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at the age of 43, after a sudden brief illness. His departure leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.

TJ grew up in a family deeply rooted in love, sports, and community. He attended Williamsville South High School, where he excelled on the basketball court and football field. His athletic talent and passion carried him far beyond high school—he played basketball competitively for years, including in the Gus Macker tournaments in Buffalo, and later with the Minnesota Rip-Knees of the ABA.

A gifted multi-sport athlete, TJ went on to become an American professional football tight end. After playing college football at Buffalo State College, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Minnesota Vikings in 2004. His professional journey continued with the Rhein Fire, Frankfurt Galaxy, San Diego Chargers, Rochester Raiders, and New York Sentinels. TJ was the son of former NFL linebacker and coach Ted Cottrell, and in each of his NFL and UFL stops, father and son had the rare privilege of working side by side on the same team—a connection both cherished.

Sports were only one dimension of TJ’s vibrant life. He was an avid music lover, writer, producer, and performing rap artist known as Cottreezy, using his creativity to express his heart, humor, and perspective. Jamaica held a special place in his life. Having traveled there since the age of two, he grew close to the culture and later embraced aspects of the Rastafari lifestyle that inspired him deeply.

TJ’s commitment to health, physical fitness, and nutrition was a defining part of who he was. A dedicated vegetarian and disciplined athlete, he encouraged friends and loved ones to pursue healthier lifestyles, leading by example with his five-day-a-week training routine.

Known for his huge sense of humor, infectious smile, and magnetic personality, TJ brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He loved the city of Buffalo—its culture, its people, and especially its Buffalo Bills. His connection to the team began in childhood, working as a ball boy, helping equipment managers, and holding headset cords for his father on the sidelines on game day. More recently, he shared his passion with the community through his weekly Bills Mafia podcast appearances with Buffalo Burn.

TJ's legacy continues with his father Theodore Cottrell (Kathleen); his beloved son Maurice; brothers Corey, Kameron (Taniesha), and Kevin (Stephanie); sisters Kelsey, Kimberly, Kenna (Rico), Kia (Ryan), Kassi (Aaron), and Kathea; his godfathers William Curtis (Deborah) and Dennis DiPaolo (Karyn); and a large and loving circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and former teammates.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Barbara, whom he now joins in eternal rest following her passing on October 31, 2025.

TJ will be remembered for his boundless spirit, his loyalty, his laughter, and the way he could lift others simply by being himself. His loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he leaves behind. He will be missed dearly and forever cherished.

A Celebration of Life for TJ will be held in the spring of 2026