Former NFL linebacker Bryan Braman has died at the age of 38 following a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Braman, who won the Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018, was diagnosed with the illness in February this year.
His agent, Sean Stellato, confirmed the news, describing Braman as unselfish and generous. Stellato told NBC affiliate KPRC: 'It’s hard. I feel like I lost my firstborn. This kid, he gave me his bed every time I came to Philadelphia. He would threaten me if I didn’t stay with him. That’s how unselfish he was and how generous he was. That’s something I’ll always cherish. My heart hurts today.'
Braman, born in Spokane, Washington, began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans in 2011. He played nearly 100 games over seven seasons, also representing the Eagles. His final game was the Eagles' Super Bowl LII victory, the team's first championship since the 1960s.
Following his diagnosis, Braman underwent an extensive 12-week treatment programme in Seattle. A GoFundMe page set up by his friend William Jones raised over $89,000, surpassing its $25,000 target. Former teammate J.J. Watt donated $10,000 and paid tribute online, writing: 'Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon.'
The Eagles released a statement praising Braman as a loyal teammate and devoted father. He is survived by his two daughters, Blakely, 11, and Harlowe, eight.
