Tyler Hilinski’s younger brother shares emotional message on Twitter

The younger brother of Tyler Hilinski shared an emotional message on Twitter Saturday, just a handful of days after the news of the young man’s tragic death became public.

Ryan Hilinski gave us some insight into what made his brother so special.

“Tyler Hilinski will live on forever,” Ryan Hilinski wrote. “My big brother will live on. He was a brother, a son, a ball player and an excellent student. He was so many great things. He loved playing video games with his friends and brothers late at night. He loved smiling and going to practice. He loved everyone.”

Ryan also bared his own soul, sharing the pain and confusion he and his family are dealing with at this time.

“There are so many unanswered questions and right now we can only look to our God above for answers. Words cannot describe the pain being felt throughout my family. From what I know there wasn’t a soul that didn’t love Tyler. He was also the first soul that didn’t love Tyler. He was also the first one on the field getting everyone hyped up for practice or the first one to be there when someone was hurting. The amount of support my family and I have received throughout this whole time has been more than expected. We will all get through this together. One day at a time. Tyler, brother, I love you man. I’m going to continue to give my 110% every single day to make you proud and help you smile. Kelly and I will take care of mom and dad for you so you don’t have to worry about that.”

Ryan concluded by saying, “Keep killing it up there for me and I’ll take care of business down here and see you when I see you! #TylerStrong”

Hilinski was beloved. His college teammate Cole Madison is also honoring him. He will wear a special sticker on his helmet when he competes in the Senior Bowl next week. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who knew him and is mourning his passing. May he rest in peace.