Former Denver Broncos running back and Super Bowl winner Ronnie Hillman has tragically passed away at the age of 31.
ALSO: Ellen DeGeneres Show star Stephen 'tWitch' Boss dies at age 40
The NFL star's family released a statement on social media saying: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother & father, Ronnie K Hillman Jr.
VIDEO: Stars gone too soon
"Ronnie quietly and peacefully transitioned today in the company of his family and close friends," it continued.
"We as the family, appreciate the prayers and kind words that have already been expressed. We ask that you would give us time to process our feelings as we prepare to lay our precious RJ to rest."
TRENDING NOW: GMA3's new anchor talks struggle with getting to host the show
They concluded by adding: "More information will be forthcoming. With love, The Family."
Ronnie's family released a statement announcing his passing
His family shared news of his diagnosis just a day prior, writing: "Though this message is difficult to share, we feel it is necessary.
August of this year, Ronnie was diagnosed with Renal Medullary Carcinoma. Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC) is a rare but highly aggressive neoplasm form of cancer that primarily affects young African Americans with sickle cell trait.
MORE: General Hospital star Sonya Eddy's heartbreaking cause of death revealed
ALSO POPULAR: Jenna Bush Hager makes daughter Mila's dream come true as they reveal new addition to the family
"Unfortunately treatment has not been successful and our beloved RJ is currently under Hospice Care where he is being kept comfortable and out of pain.
"As a family, we hope beyond hope, and we have faith that can move mountains. We also understand that God's will is not always ours; therefore, we as a family subject ourselves to the will of our Almighty God.
The NFL star was moved to hospice care prior
"We need your prayers, but we also need your understanding and respect for Ronnie and our family's privacy at this time."
Read more HELLO! US stories here
Like this story? Sign up to our newsletter to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox.