Chicago Bears defensive end Gaines Adams died Sunday morning after he was taken to the emergency room in Greenwood, South Carolina. He was officially pronounced dead at 8.21 a.m. EST. 

There has yet to be an official word on cause of death, although rumors and sources have speculated that Ganies suffered a heart attack. An autopsy is scheduled for today.

Adams, 26, was acquired by the Chicago Bears for a second-round pick in a October deal.

The trade was an attempt to shore up a defensive line that may be depleted with the rumored departure of Adewale Ogunleye to free agency. 

Adams, a former first round pick of the Buccaneers, was limited in his contributions to the Bears this year, appearing in only 10 games and recording a combined seven tackles.

Fans and Bears staff alike were eager to see Adams development under renowned defensive line coach Rod Marinelli.