EXCLUSIVE

NFL Hall of Famer Cortez Kennedy is dead at the age of 48 ... TMZ Sports has learned.

Kennedy played 11 seasons for the Seattle Seahawks ... and was an 8x Pro Bowler. He was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

We spoke to Orlando PD who confirmed Kennedy's passing ... but they added "there is nothing suspicious" about his death.

We've spoken to family members who say they're currently traveling to Orlando.

Cause of death is still unclear.

Pro Football Hall of Fame President David Baker said, "The entire Hall of Fame family is stunned and deeply saddened to learn the news of Cortez Kennedey's passing."

"Cortez will be remembered not only for all his great achievements on the football field but how he handled himself off the field. He epitomized the many great values this game teaches which serves as inspiration to millions of fans."