Bryan Braman dead at 38: NFL champion’s brave cancer battle

Bryan Braman: NFL Champion’s Legacy Lives On After Tragic Death at 38

The NFL community and fans worldwide are reeling from the loss of Bryan Braman, a former linebacker and Super Bowl LII champion, who passed away today (July 17), at the age of 38. Braman’s death, confirmed by his agent Sean Stellato, came after a valiant battle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, diagnosed in February 2025. Known for his fearless special teams play and unrelenting spirit, Braman left an indelible mark on the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, and the NFL as a whole.

Early Life and College Career

Born on May 4, 1987, in Spokane, Washington, Bryan Allan Braman grew up with a passion for football. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, his athleticism and size made him a standout. However, his journey to the NFL was far from conventional. Braman began his college career at the University of Idaho, playing for the Vandals, before transferring to Long Beach City College and later to West Texas A&M University. At West Texas A&M, he honed his skills as a defensive end, showcasing the tenacity that would define his professional career.

Despite his college success, Braman went undrafted in the 2011 NFL Draft. His determination and work ethic, however, earned him a spot as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans. Therefore, setting the stage for a memorable seven-year career.

NFL Career: From Underdog to Super Bowl Champion

Bryan Braman’s NFL journey began with the Houston Texans in 2011, where he quickly became a fan favorite for his high-energy special teams play. His breakout moment came in the 2011 season finale against the Tennessee Titans. In that game, he made a now-iconic helmetless tackle on punt returner Marc Mariani. The play, which went viral, showcased Braman’s fearless intensity and cemented his reputation as a relentless competitor. In 2012, his special teams prowess earned him a Pro Bowl alternate nod. Thus, a testament to his impact in a role often overlooked.

Braman spent three seasons with the Texans (2011–2013). Therefore, appearing in 46 games and recording 34 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries. His contributions on special teams, including a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts, made him a vital part of the Texans’ roster.

In 2014, Braman signed a two-year, $3.15 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. There, he continued to shine. His size, speed, and athleticism, praised by then-coach Chip Kelly, made him a key special teams contributor. Braman’s career-defining moment came during the 2017 NFL playoffs. In the NFC Divisional Round against the Atlanta Falcons, he blocked a punt by Matt Bosher, leading to a crucial field goal in the Eagles’ 15–10 victory.

Braman played 24 special teams snaps in Super Bowl LII, recording a tackle in the Eagles’ historic 41–33 upset over the New England Patriots on February 4, 2018. The victory marked Philadelphia’s first Super Bowl title since the 1960s and was Braman’s final NFL game.

After a brief stint with the New Orleans Saints in 2017, where he was placed on injured reserve, Braman returned to the Eagles for their championship run. Over his career, he played in 97 regular-season games, amassing 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries. His stats may not rival those of NFL superstars. However, Braman’s hustle and heart made him a beloved figure in every locker room he entered.

Battle with Brain Cancer

In February 2025, Braman received a devastating diagnosis: a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. He began an intensive 12-week treatment program in Seattle, Washington, which included multiple surgeries and advanced CAR T-cell therapy, a process where immune cells are reprogrammed to fight cancer. A GoFundMe campaign, organized by friend Williams Jones, raised over $88,000 to cover medical expenses, housing, and caregiving costs, with a notable $10,000 donation from former Texans teammate J.J. Watt.

Despite initial progress, with the cancer mass shrinking after CAR T-cell therapy, Braman’s condition worsened. A June 20 update on the GoFundMe page revealed that his lowered immunity, caused by extensive treatments, hindered recovery from surgeries. The cancer grew exponentially. Thus, attacking vital organs and leaving limited chemotherapy options. Braman’s resilience shone through as he explored trial treatment programs, refusing to give up. Tragically, he passed away on July 17, surrounded by friends and family in a Spokane hospital.

Personal Life and Legacy

Bryan Braman is survived by his two daughters, Blakely (11) and Marlowe (8), and his mother, Tina Braman-Fields. His mother played a pivotal role in managing his care and fundraisers during his illness. Braman once described his daughters and his Super Bowl win as his greatest accomplishments, reflecting his deep devotion to family. Though not publicly linked to a spouse, his close-knit family provided unwavering support throughout his cancer battle.

Beyond football, Braman invested in his Texas community through youth coaching and outreach programs. His estimated net worth at the time of his death was between $1.5 and $2 million, built from career earnings of over $4.7 million and savvy investments. His financial stability ensured support for his daughters, whom he cherished above all.

Braman’s legacy extends beyond the gridiron. Teammates and coaches remembered him as the “glue guy” in the locker room, a selfless leader whose loyalty and positivity uplifted those around him. Former Texans teammate J.J. Watt posted on X, “Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon,” alongside a photo of Braman. Emmanuel Acho, a former Eagles teammate, shared an emotional tribute, writing, “I didn’t intend on crying this morning. Then I read the news on my teammate, Bryan Braman. Love you Braman. You lived a hard life, and you never complained about it. A champion in life and a warrior in death.”

The Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles issued statements mourning his loss, with the Eagles noting, “During his four seasons in Philadelphia, Bryan was a loyal teammate, a supporter of the community, and a valuable member of our Super Bowl LII-winning team.” Fans on X echoed these sentiments, celebrating Braman’s grit and underdog spirit, with posts like, “Philly will never forget you, 56.”

Impact on the NFL and Fans

Bryan Braman’s story resonates as one of perseverance. From an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl champion, he embodied the underdog spirit that defines the NFL’s most inspiring tales. His fearless special teams play, like the helmetless tackle and blocked punts, thrilled fans and earned respect from peers. Off the field, his courage in facing brain cancer inspired thousands, with the GoFundMe campaign reflecting the NFL community’s support.

His death at 38 sparked an outpouring of grief and reflection. Posts on X described him as “one of the toughest to ever do it,” highlighting his impact beyond statistics. The NFL’s tributes underscored his role as a selfless teammate whose presence elevated those around him.