Entertainment
Super Bowl-Winning NFL Linebacker Dies At 38
Texan Super Bowl champ Bryan Braman died this week, less than a decade after retiring from professional football. He was just 38 years old.
The former linebacker had undergone multiple surgeries in recent years to treat a rare and aggressive form of cancer, according to his agent. For a time, his treatment had taken Braman to Seattle, according to a GoFundMe page set up to raise funds for his medical costs.
Braman was first diagnosed in February.
“Bryan, people saw this enormous human being, but his heart was big as his body,” agent Sean Stellato told KPRC 2 in Houston. “His spirit was so motivating. He was so real and genuine with everybody. That made him special.
Stellato said that Braman leaves behind two daughters, ages 11 and 8.
“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 something I’ll always cherish. My heart hurts today,” his agent said.
The fund in support of Braman’s family has raised over $88,000 to date, including a $10,000 donation from former Texans star J.J. Watt. Other past teammates have also contributed, ESPN reported.
“Rest in Peace brother,” Watt wrote on social media. “Gone far too soon.”
The Eagles and Texans each released statements paying tribute to their former star.
“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,” the Eagles said in a statement. “More importantly, he was a devoted father who passionately loved his family and everyone around him. We extend our deepest condolences to Bryan’s family and all who are grieving his loss during this difficult time.”
The Texans stated: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Bryan Braman. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Braman family during this difficult time.”
After playing for West Texas A&M, Braman entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Texans and playing for three seasons.
He spent four seasons with the Eagles, including during their Super Bowl-winning 2019 season when he joined for the playoffs and blocked a punt during the divisional round. Super Bowl LII was Braman’s final NFL game.
“You look at his journey and beating the odds to make it to the NFL after going undrafted,” Stellato recalled about his unlikely professional career. “Not only making it, but producing and becoming a world champion, he had a real hard journey. In life, we all run this race. To die at age 38, the game of football and his family are hurting today. He was a staple for what football and underdogs are about.”
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50 days until Eagles Week 1 🦅⏳
Today, for #TheCountdown we honor a true warrior — Bryan Braman, who proudly wore #50 and brought relentless energy to special teams and beyond.
Braman is currently battling a rare form of cancer, and the entire Eagles family is behind him.… https://t.co/XsJX7ggroT pic.twitter.com/89yYuK6B44
— Fly Eagles Fly Bets (@Fly_EaglesBets) July 16, 2025