The NFL community is mourning the loss of Bryan Braman, the former defensive end and Super Bowl LII champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, who passed away at just 38 after a battle with a rare and aggressive cancer.

Former agent Sean P. Stellato confirmed Braman’s passing on Thursday. The Spokane, Washington native leaves behind two daughters.

A Career Built on Grit and Hustle

Braman entered the NFL undrafted in 2011 after stints at three different colleges, eventually signing with the Houston Texans. Known primarily as a special teams force, he quickly developed a cult following for his relentless energy and big-play potential. He blocked multiple punts during his time in Houston and was named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2012.

After joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2014, Braman later spent time with the New Orleans Saints before returning to Philadelphia in late 2017. His return proved timely: in a divisional playoff win over the Atlanta Falcons, he blocked a crucial punt that helped propel the Eagles toward their historic Super Bowl run.

Braman suited up in Super Bowl LII and recorded a tackle in the Eagles’ thrilling 41–33 victory over the New England Patriots, securing the franchise’s first championship.

Former teammate Chris Long once described him as “an absolute psychopath in the best way — a fiery locker room presence who could get the whole team going.”

The Fight of His Life

In February, Braman was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, details of which were kept private at first. A GoFundMe campaign helped raise nearly $90,000 to support his medical bills.

He underwent Car-T cell reprogramming therapy in Seattle, which initially showed promise as doctors noted his cells were reproducing. But despite early progress, the cancer fought back.

Even then, Braman refused to give up. Organizer William Jones wrote in June: “Bryan has not given up. He is determined to keep fighting and is looking into other treatment trials.”

His battle drew widespread support from the football community. Former teammate J.J. Watt personally donated $10,000 to his fundraiser, while others, including Emmanuel Acho, helped amplify his story.

Remembered as a Champion

Beyond the field, Braman was known for his toughness, leadership, and larger-than-life personality. Stellato Sports paid tribute: *“Bryan Braman has always stood for strength, resilience and leadership. He is a pillar and a staple of the underdog.”*

Since news of his passing, social media has been filled with condolences from teammates, fans, and the wider NFL world. One Eagles supporter wrote simply: “Phenomenal human being and forever a champion. Rest in peace, Bryan.”