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Bryan Braman, a former linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans, passed away on Thursday (July 17) at the age of 38 after battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Braman, who was diagnosed in February, underwent extensive treatment in Seattle, including CAR T-cell therapy and multiple surgeries. Despite initial signs of improvement, the cancer returned, spreading rapidly around his vital organs.
Braman's football career began as an undrafted free agent with the Texans in 2011. He played seven seasons in the NFL, becoming a fan favorite for his intensity on special teams. Braman's career highlight was winning the Super Bowl with the Eagles in 2018, where he contributed to the team's first championship since the 1960s.
His agent, Sean Stellato, described Braman as a genuine and motivating presence, saying, "Bryan, people saw this enormous human being, but his heart was as big as his body." Former teammates, including J.J. Watt and Emmanuel Acho, expressed their grief and admiration for Braman's resilience and spirit.
Braman leaves behind two daughters, ages 11 and 8. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $89,000 to support his medical expenses. The Eagles and Texans both released statements mourning his loss and extending condolences to his family.