Missing Persons Case: Former NFL Player Sam Beal Disappears Under Troubling Circumstances

A recent missing persons report filed with the Kentwood Police Department in Michigan sheds light on the unsettling circumstances surrounding the disappearance of former NFL player Sam Beal, who has been unaccounted for since July 2025. The revelations highlight the significant struggles Beal faced leading up to his disappearance, raising concerns among family and friends.

Background on Sam Beal

Sam Beal was drafted by the New York Giants in the third round of the 2018 supplementary draft. After a brief career with the Giants, which included appearances in nine games, things took a downturn for Beal as he dealt with personal challenges.

Timeline of Events

• July 2025: Beal last communicated before disappearing, after dropping off his girlfriend at a family member’s home and borrowing her car for work.
• Virginia Beach: Beal drove to Virginia Beach and has not been seen since his arrival.

Struggles Leading Up to His Disappearance

According to the police report obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, witnesses indicated that Beal had been facing emotional difficulties, with statements reflective of his mental state:

• “If I was gone nobody would even care.”
• Remarks about wishing to be taken away by a tornado during severe weather.

Criminal Background

Beal also faced legal troubles, serving time in jail from September 2024 to February 2025 due to unpaid child support for a child from a prior relationship. His struggle with mental health and life post-NFL was compounded by these legal issues.

Witness Statements and Concerns

Witnesses reported that Beal seemed "a little off" after his release from jail and had stopped taking prescribed medication. This alarming behavior prompted further concern for his well-being.

Key Quotes from Witnesses:

• One witness noted Beal mentioned feeling indifferent toward his existence, stating, "If I was gone nobody would even care."

Delayed Reporting of His Disappearance

A miscommunication between Beal’s family and witnesses delayed the filing of the missing person report. The report was only initiated in August after Beal’s parole agent indicated he had missed a scheduled check-in on August 6, 2025.

Family Plea for Information

Recently, Beal’s sister, Essence Zhane, issued a heartwarming public plea via social media:

“I love you and I would do anything to get one of those hugs from you… Your babies miss you; they act just like you.”

As of now, there have been no significant updates from the Kentwood PD, while the Virginia Beach Police Department is actively supporting the investigation in collaboration with local authorities.

Status of the Investigation

Investigators have made multiple attempts to contact Beal and have reached out to the Virginia Beach Police Department and local hospitals in search of any leads. Beal is not known to have any connections to the Virginia Beach area, adding an additional layer of mystery to his disappearance.

NFL Players Association Involvement

An NFL Players Association spokesperson confirmed awareness of the situation but refrained from commenting further.

Conclusion

Sam Beal’s case underscores the serious issues many athletes face after their sports careers end. With his family and the community seeking answers, the hope is that more information will surface to provide closure. If anyone has seen or hears from Sam Beal, local authorities encourage contact with the Kentwood Police Department.

For more on mental health awareness, visit Mental Health America, and for updates on missing persons cases, check The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System.