Former NFL defensive lineman Al Lucas died from an apparent spinal cord injury he suffered while trying to make a tackle for the Los Angeles Avengers during an Arena Football League game.

The Macon, Ga., native left behind a wife, De'Shonda Lucas, and daughter, Mariah. He was 26.

Lucas was pronounced dead at California Hospital after attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, team physician Dr. Luga Podesta said in a statement.

Los Angeles Avenger Al Lucas died after a tackle in an Arena Football League game on Sunday.

"It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Al Lucas. At this time, the thoughts and prayers of the entire Avenger organization are with his wife and family," team owner and chief executive officer Casey Wasserman said in a statement.

He was injured during the first-quarter kickoff return against the New York Dragons.

Television replays showed a Dragons' ball carrier and a blocker tumbling over his head and back. The blocker's leg appeared to hit Lucas in the head.

He did not move after falling to the ground.

The six-foot-one, 300-pound lineman played two seasons for the Carolina Panthers.

He made the 2003 all-rookie team while playing for Tampa Bay.

"Al Lucas played arena football with passion and integrity. The entire AFL family extends its deepest sympathies to Al's wife and family as well as his friends, family and teammates," commissioner David Baker said in a statement.