The family of Junior Seau will allow the deceased NFL star's brain to be studied by researchers, most likely at Boston University School of Medicine. There are similarities between Seau's suicide and that of former Bears safety Dave Duerson, who also died of a self-inflicted gunshot to the chest. Researchers will seek evidence of brain damage as the result of concussions. ESPN reports the forensic pathologist who first identified chronic brain damage as a factor in the deaths of some NFL players has already flown to San Diego to take part in the autopsy.

Boston researchers are attempting to obtain Junior Seau's brain for evidence of concussion-related trauma. Seau shot himself in the chest, which has sparked speculation that he killed himself like Dave Duerson. Duerson, who committed suicide similarly, did so to "preserve" his brain for medical study. Seau's death has been formally ruled a suicide. He played 20 seasons in the league and passed on at age 43.

The North County Times reports that former Chargers and Patriots LB Junior Seau passed away Wednesday after a self-inflicted gunshot to the chest. Seau's body was discovered by a housekeeper at his California home Wednesday. Seau was a 12-time Pro Bowler and is eligible for Hall of Fame enshrinement in 2015 after ending his playing career in 2009. He was voted first-team All-Pro six times. Seau should still be a shoo-in for the first ballot in Canton.