A fierce competitor on the field
Former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Bryan Braman has passed away at 38 after a difficult battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His manager, Sean Stellato, confirmed the tragic news on Thursday. Braman last played in the NFL in Super Bowl LII, where he helped the Eagles win their first championship since 1960.
Known for his tireless effort and fearless play on special teams, Braman’s NFL journey was never easy. He joined the league as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans in 2011 and quickly made a name for himself with his passion and hard work.
From undrafted to Super Bowl champion
Before making it to the NFL, Braman played college ball at Long Beach City College, the University of Idaho, and West Texas A&M. He went undrafted but found his niche with the Texans, playing three seasons there before signing with the Eagles in 2014. His most memorable moment came during Philadelphia’s Super Bowl campaign in the 2017 season, when he blocked a crucial punt in the divisional round against the Falcons. That match was decided by just five points – a moment where special teams made the difference.
Braman played a total of 97 NFL games between 2011 and 2017, including 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries – stats that did not always reflect the value he brought as a key special teams player.
Battling a rare and aggressive cancer
According to a GoFundMe page created by his close friend William Jones, in February 2025, Braman was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer. The fundraising campaign was aimed at helping with medical expenses for the intensive treatments Braman had to undergo. In Seattle, he underwent CAR-T cell reprogramming therapy, which initially showed improvement, but his condition soon deteriorated.
Doctors later discovered the cancer was growing rapidly around his vital organs, limiting chemotherapy options. Despite multiple surgeries and rounds of treatment, Braman’s body struggled to recover due to a weakened immune system. His friends and supporters say he never gave up and continued to seek clinical trials in hopes of finding a cure.
NFL family shows support
The GoFundMe campaign raised $88,000, and the NFL community also supported Braman. The biggest contribution came from his former Texans teammate J.J. Watt, who donated $10,000. The support spoke volumes about how much of a well-liked, good person and player Braman was, both on and off the field.
He wasn’t a big name, but Braman was the kind of player every team needed – reliable, unselfish, and completely dedicated on every snap. Whether blocking a punt or covering a kick, he played with all his heart.
Remembering Brian Braman beyond football
Braman leaves behind two young daughters, Blakely (11) and Marlow (8). In past interviews, he said his NFL career, his Super Bowl ring, and being a father were the three greatest accomplishments of his life.
He will be remembered not only as a Super Bowl champion, but also as a man who gave his all, whether it was on the football field or in his battle against cancer.
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