Bryan Braman, a brave warrior on and off the field, has lost his battle with a rare form of cancer at the age of 38.
The Super Bowl-winning linebacker played for two teams across seven seasons in the NFL, and his agent, Sean Stellato, described him as a “warrior in every sense – on the field and in life – facing every battle with unshakeable grit and heart.”
A Rare and Aggressive Cancer Diagnosis
Braman was diagnosed with cancer in February, and a GoFundMe page was set up to help fund his treatment and medical necessities.
According to the latest update on the page, Braman had undergone multiple surgical procedures at a facility in Seattle but had been unable to fully recover due to his lowered immunity.
He then underwent Car T cell reprogramming treatment, a genetically engineered therapy that involves attacking cancer cells with a patient’s own T cells.
Braman’s Brave Fight Against Cancer
There were signs of optimism as the cancer mass started to shrink, but sadly, it “started fighting back” and Braman underwent chemo treatments.
Despite the efforts, the cancer grew “exponentially faster” around his vital organs.
Tributes Pour in for Bryan Braman
At the time of writing, the GoFundMe had raised almost $90,000, with his former Houston Texans teammate, JJ Watt, donating $10,000 to the cause.
Watt later paid tribute to Braman on social media, writing: “Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon.”
Stellato posted a framed, signed jersey from Braman on his Instagram story with the caption: “My heart hurts. I love you Bryan.”
Braman’s NFL Career
Braman began his college career at Idaho before moving to Long Beach City College and finishing at West Texas A&M.
He went undrafted but signed with the Texans in 2011 as an undrafted free agent.
Braman became a fan favorite after making a tackle with no helmet on during a game against the Tennessee Titans in 2011.
In 2012, he was named a Pro Bowl special teams alternate.
He spent three years in Houston before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was part of the team that won Super Bowl LII, beating the New England Patriots.