Super Bowl-Winning Linebacker Bryan Braman Dies Aged 38 After Battle With ‘Very Rare Form of Cancer’

 

Super Bowl-Winning Linebacker Bryan Braman Dies Aged 38 After Battle With ‘Very Rare Form of Cancer’

After a courageous fight against what his family identified as a "very rare form of cancer," former linebacker Bryan Braman died at the age of 38, leaving the NFL community in sorrow.

A Champion on and off the Field

The Philadelphia Eagles' historic Super Bowl LII-winning squad in 2018 included Braman, who is best known for his time with the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles. Despite sometimes going concealed, he developed himself as a special-teams star and gained the respect of both teammates and supporters for his heart, determination, and intensity.

Earlier this week, his family and close friends announced his death on social media, sharing the sad news. Fans, coaches, and former teammates have all sent in emotional messages, describing Braman as a giving, low, and kind person in addition to being an excellent competitor.

Battling a Rare and Aggressive Illness

Braman has been facing a rare and deadly form of cancer in private for several months, according to people close to him. While the precise type wasn't made public, it was said to be difficult to recognize and control.

Says a family friend, "He was a warrior in every sense." "Bryan stayed positive, smiled with his nursing staff, and tried thinking about the next step in life, even if it wasn't on the field, even on his worst days."

Like his NFL career, his battle with cancer was characterized by tenacity and strength.

A Journey from Underdog to NFL Champion

Braman had an unusual path to the NFL. He signed with the Houston Texans in 2011 after going undrafted out of West Texas A&M right away established himself as a respected enforcer. The Philadelphia Eagles were his next stop, where he played from 2014 to 2016 and again in their run to the Super Bowl in 2017.

Hard-hitting tackles, stopped punts, and an all-time favorite moment when he made a tackle without a helmet during a Texans game—a video that is still shared online—were among Braman's career highlights during his six seasons in the NFL.

Tributes From the Football World

Tributes from all throughout the NFL community flooded in after word of his passing.

In a statement, the Philadelphia Eagles said:

Bryan was an example of persistence and zeal. Every day, he filled our locker room and the field with energy. His family is in our prayers during this trying time.

Braman was referred to as "a brother," "a light in dark times," and "the kind of teammate you were lucky to have" by former teammates. In order to honor his legacy, NFL fans also used hashtags like #FlyHighBraman and #BramanStrong on social media to share memories.

Remembering Bryan Braman

In addition to football, Braman was known for his colorful nature, love for the great outdoors, and devotion to community work. Long after the final bell rang, he remained to make an impact by working with community groups and young football programs.

His family, including a daughter, as well as countless friends and teammates who loved him on and off the field, are his survivors.

A Final Salute to a Fighter

The story of Bryan Braman shows fortitude, compassion, and untold bravery. He is a living example of what can be done with soul and determination, having gone undrafted, won a Super Bowl, and then battled a private war with courage and respect.

His legacy remains in the hearts of players, fans, and everyone who had the good fortune to know him, despite his sudden passing.