Super Bowl-winning linebacker Bryan Braman has died at 38 after battling a rare form of cancer, his agent confirmed to CNN Sports on Thursday. He played seven NFL seasons with two teams.
“Bryan Braman was a warrior in every sense – on the field and in life – facing every battle with unshakable grit and heart,” Sean Stellato said per CNN. “His passing leaves a void not just in football, but in the spirit of every underdog who ever dared to fight.”
A GoFundMe page was set up to support Bryan Braman after he was diagnosed with a rare, life-threatening cancer in February. He needed an intense 12-week treatment program in Seattle, which required a 24-hour caregiver. However, his insurance didn’t cover housing, leaving him without a permanent place to stay. He had already spent much of his savings, even selling his last vehicle to afford a motel for the week.
A June 20 GoFundMe update shared that Bryan Braman had returned home after undergoing CAR-T cell therapy in Seattle for a very rare form of cancer. While the treatment initially showed promise—his reprogrammed cells began reproducing and shrinking the tumor—the cancer soon fought back. He has since begun chemotherapy tailored to his treatment program.
The update explained that Bryan has undergone several surgeries, but due to a weakened immune system from treatment, his recovery has been difficult. By the time he regained enough strength for more chemo, the cancer had grown rapidly and was spreading around his vital organs.
Bryan Braman was a professional football player and Super Bowl champion known for his fierce determination and impact on special teams. Born on May 4, 1987, in Spokane, Washington, Braman played college football at West Texas A&M before signing with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He spent seven seasons in the NFL, playing for the Texans and later the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was part of the team that won Super Bowl LII. Known for his relentless energy and powerful play, Braman earned a reputation as a fan favorite and locker room leader.
