Former NFL wide receiver Mike Williams died of brain infections stemming from dental problems, officials say

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

After lots of rumors swirled surrounding how former NFL Mike Williams died, officials released an official cause of death late Thursday, while still leaving the door open for other factors.

It was initially reported on Sept. 5 that the ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneer had died after he took an accidental blow to the head at a construction site. However, days later, it was revealed he was "fighting for his life."

Williams eventually died on Sept. 12 at the age of 36, and the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner Department said he succumbed to "Bacterial Sepsis with Cerebral Abscesses and Necrotizing Lobar Pneumonia due to multiple Dental Caries and retained tooth roots."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Williams, #19, during the Bucs 23-20 loss to the Detroit Lions at Raymond James Stadium on Dec. 19, 2010 in Tampa, Florida. (Getty Images)

Essentially, his brain had pus growing around it after he had severe dental problems to the point where infections spread. Initial tests showed he had brain swelling and infections.

Fox 13 Tampa also says heart disease played a role - he suffered from a cardiac arrest, as well, shortly after the construction accident that occurred back on Sept. 1.

Mike Williams, #19 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, celebrates in the end zone in the first quarter after scoring a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium on Sept. 29, 2013 in Tampa, Florida. (Getty Images)

GIANTS' TOMMY DEVITO SAYS HIS HIGH SCHOOL RIVALRY WAS THE MOST HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT HE'S EVER PLAYED IN

Tampa Bay selected Williams in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, and he