Eden Prairie, MN (SportsNetwork.com) - Former Minnesota Vikings defensive back Orlando Thomas has died after a battle with ALS. He was 42 years old.

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune cited agent Mark Bartelstein as saying Thomas died at his home in Louisiana after a seven-year fight with arterial lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Bartelstein told the paper Thomas weighed just 70 pounds upon his death. He had revealed his diagnosis in June 2007.

"The Vikings are deeply saddened by the loss of Orlando Thomas," the team said in a statement Monday. "Orlando was an outstanding player for the Vikings for seven years, but more importantly, he represented the franchise and the state of Minnesota with the utmost dignity and class. While his outgoing personality made him a favorite among his teammates, Orlando's involvement in the community made him a favorite outside of Winter Park.

"Since 2007, Orlando fought this disease with tenacity and optimism. Throughout his difficult battle, he refused to allow ALS to define him, instead putting others' needs in front of his and focusing on making those around him smile.

"Orlando will always remain a member of the Minnesota Vikings family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Demetra and their family."

Thomas played each of his seven NFL seasons with the Vikings and led the NFL with nine interceptions as a rookie in 1995. He helped Minnesota to the NFC title game after the 1998 season and finished his career in 2001 with 22 interceptions in 98 games.