Former NFL linebacker Bryan Braman, best known for his special‑teams prowess and role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2017 Super Bowl victory, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 38 from an aggressive and rare form of cancer. His battle began with a diagnosis in February 2025, and despite undergoing multiple surgeries, CAR‑T cell therapy, chemotherapy, and intensive treatment in Seattle, the cancer ultimately overwhelmed his body.
Braman began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent out of West Texas A&M in 2011. Over seven seasons—three with the Houston Texans and four with the Philadelphia Eagles—he carved out a reputation as a fearless and inspiring special‑teams standout. Among his most memorable moments was a helmet‑less tackle late in his rookie season, as well as a pivotal blocked punt during the Eagles’ playoff run en route to a Super Bowl LII win. In total, he appeared in 97 regular‑season games, recording 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries.
Braman’s personal story was one of grit and resilience—from his humble beginnings in Spokane, Washington, through stints at Idaho, Long Beach City College, and West Texas A&M, to defying expectations in the NFL. He is survived by his two daughters, Blakely (11) and Marlowe (8), whom he often said were two of his greatest accomplishments.
The football community responded to his death with widespread sorrow and admiration. Former Texans and Eagles teammate J.J. Watt donated $10,000 to Braman’s GoFundMe and wrote on social media, “Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon.”. Eagles linebacker Emmanuel Acho paid tribute via X, calling him “a champion in life and a warrior in death”. The Eagles organization also released a statement expressing condolences to his family and praising both his on‑ and off‑field legacy.
A GoFundMe campaign launched in February garnered nearly $88,000, with significant contributions from former teammates and the broader football community to assist with his medical bills.
Braman’s passing just months after achieving football’s greatest prize is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. His legacy is defined not just by his contributions on the field but also by his courageous, humble spirit off it. His agent, Sean Stellato, described him as a “Hall of Fame human being” and highlighted his unwavering passion and generous nature.
In death, as in life, Bryan Braman continues to inspire. From undrafted hopeful to Super Bowl champion, from single father to beloved teammate, he embodied the spirit of perseverance. Though sorrow fills today’s remembrances, his story—of underdog triumph, grit, and generosity—will endure.
