Tommy Vigorito, a former Miami Dolphins running back and punt returner, passed away due to complications likely related to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) at the age of 65 on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
He had experienced physical and cognitive decline, which he believed was caused by repeated head trauma sustained during his football career.
Born on October 23, 1959, he attended DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne, New Jersey, where he first showcased his athletic abilities.
Then, he played college football at the University of Virginia from 1977 to 1980, where he became one of the school’s most accomplished running backs.
Vigorito finished his college career as Virginia’s second all-time leading rusher, accumulating 2,912 rushing yards.
His performance earned him First-team All-ACC honors in 1979, and he remains among the top rushers in Virginia football history.
Following his successful college career, Vigorito was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the 5th round (138th overall) of the 1981 NFL Draft.
From 1981 to 1985, he contributed as a running back and punt returner, making a significant impact on special teams.
Tommy Vigorito’s Wife, Natalie Wagner Vigorito, Had A Diverse Background In Education, Business, And Sales!
Tommy Vigorito was married to Natalie Wagner Vigorito, a former teacher at Wayne Valley High School.
As evidenced by her Facebook bio, Natalie pursued her education with a strong focus on languages and international business.
She attended DePaul Catholic High School before continuing her studies at Upsala College in East Orange, NJ, where she majored in International Business and Languages.
Later, she furthered her education in French at Montclair State University, which laid the foundation for her career in language and global commerce.
Professionally, Natalie held various roles across multiple industries. She worked in sales and marketing at Antler Translation.
Eventually, she became a Fashion and Beauty Account Executive at Burrelles, followed by a position in international sales at Capezio, a well-known dancewear company.
Expanding her career into commodities, she served as a coffee trading assistant at Westway Merkuria Trading Co.
Additionally, she shared her passion for language as a French teacher at Wayne Valley High School.
Her diverse career reflects her adaptability and expertise in international business, education, and sales.
Tommy Vigorito And Natalie Wagner Vigorito Spent Many Decades Together!
Tommy Vigorito and his wife, Natalie Wagner, shared a beautiful married life filled with love and companionship.
However, there are no reports suggesting that they had children.
While there is limited publicly available information about their personal life, the couple was seen attending public events together.
They attended the 33rd Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner in New York City on September 24, 2018, which raised funds for the Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis.
After the passing of her husband, Tommy Vigorito, Natalie Wagner Vigorito took to Facebook to express her grief and love for him.
She wrote:
Life was too short for you. You brought us love and joy, and we’re ever thankful for all the time we had together. Miss you so much already and love you forever.
Likewise, one of Tommy Vigorito’s well-wishers shared a heartfelt message, expressing both sorrow and support for his loved ones, writing:
We are very sorry to hear of this tragic loss of such a great guy. No more suffering for him, and our prayers to you and your family for the strength to endure this heartbreak.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Tommy Vigorito’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Originally from Passaic, New Jersey, United States, Vigorito was born to parents Ralph “Irv” and Debbie Vigorito.
- His father was a quarterback for Central High School’s varsity football team and played shortstop for the varsity baseball team.
- Tommy Vigorito was predeceased by his father, Ralph “Irv” Vigorito, who passed away on August 24, 2023, at the age of 85.
