Former Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Bryan Braman died Thursday after seeking treatment this year for a rare, aggressive form of cancer. He was 38.
Braman’s agent Sean Stellato confirmed his death Thursday, noting that Braman had two daughters, ages 11 and 8. Stellato said in a statement that “Bryan, people saw this enormous human being, but his heart was big as his body. His spirit was so motivating. He was so real and genuine with everybody. That made him special. 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.”
Braman received his diagnosis in February, according to a GoFundMe page set up to help him with expenses. The GoFundMe said that Braman had underwent several surgeries in Seattle to treat a rare, aggressive form of cancer, adding that he had trouble recovering from his procedures due to his lowered immunity, and that the cancer was growing around his vital organs.
Braman’s GoFundMe page had a goal of $25,000, but was nearing $90,000 as of Thursday. A June update on the GoFundMe page read that “Bryan is home with his family after undergoing a CAR-T cell reprogramming treatment program in Seattle. With the cancer that Bryan has, which is a very rare form of cancer, the CAR-T treatment had the highest chance of success as the cells are reprogrammed to fight this cancer that is within Bryan. His cells did re-infuse themselves, and did in fact start reproducing within his bone marrow. At first, the mass did start to shrink, but then the cancer started fighting back.”
Former Texans star J.J. Watt donated $10,000 alongside other former teammates; with Watt posting on X: “Rest in Peace brother. Gone far too soon.”
Braman played at Idaho, Long Beach Community College and West Texas A&M before entering the league as an undrafted free agent signing by the Texans in 2011. He joined the Eagles in 2014, totaling 56 combined tackles over 97 career appearances. He also made seven postseason appearances, including three during the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning run in 2017-18.
The Eagles said in a statement: “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. 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 also shared: “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.”
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